Homeless Living in Restrooms in Venice

The City of Los Angeles Department of Public Works sanitation workers, in collaboration with Clean Harbors Environmental Inc., conducted a cleanup operation of homeless encampments at the Venice Beach Boardwalk Restrooms near Rose Avenue on Friday, March 31, 2023. The operation was conducted in response to significant health and safety concerns for both the unhoused and the general public due to many of the unhoused using the restrooms as living quarters.

Sanitation workers donned white hazardous materials suits as part of the safety protocol for the cleanup, while LAHSA provided homeless outreach during the cleanup. To ensure the safety of all involved, Los Angeles Park Rangers were present at the site throughout the operation. The weekly cleanup activity takes place every Friday in Venice to maintain the cleanliness and hygiene of the area.

The City of Los Angeles has been actively addressing the issue of homelessness in the area, and the Venice Beach cleanup is just one part of their ongoing efforts. However, it is important to note that these cleanups are not a solution to the larger issue of homelessness. The City of Los Angeles continues to work on implementing long-term solutions to address the root causes of homelessness and provide resources to those in need.

While the cleanup helps to improve public health and safety, it also helps to restore the restrooms to their intended use. Overall, the clean-up of homeless encampments at Venice Beach is an important step in providing much-needed resources and support to the unhoused individuals in the area. The City of Los Angeles remains committed to addressing the issue of homelessness in the area and will continue to work towards long-term solutions.

Santa Monica Close Up is a photo blog by Santa Monica based Photojournalist/Press photographer Fabian Lewkowicz. Fabian is the former staff photographer for the Santa Monica Daily Observer Press, Santa Monica Mirror, Santa Monica and the Santa Monica Corsair.

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