Weekly Spot Cleaning at Homeless Encampments in Venice

On Thursday, May 25, 2023, the City of Los Angeles Department of Public Works, in collaboration with Action Cleanup Environmental Services, executed a comprehensive cleanup operation targeting the homeless encampment in Venice. The main objective was to address significant health and safety concerns for both the unhoused individuals and the general public. Sanitation workers, equipped with white hazardous materials suits, adhered to strict safety protocols throughout the cleanup.

During the operation, LAHSA (Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority) provided homeless outreach services to offer assistance and support to those affected. The decision to conduct the cleanup was prompted by the unhoused individuals utilizing restrooms as living quarters, posing potential health risks.

The cleanup involved two separate waste management teams working in collaboration. Action Cleanup Environmental Services took the initial step of sorting through the garbage to identify and collect hazardous waste items, such as batteries, urine, and syringes. Following their efforts, Los Angeles Public Works sanitation workers took over to collect the remaining garbage.

To ensure a secure environment, Los Angeles Police Officers were present throughout the cleanup operation. This weekly cleanup activity takes place every Thursday in Venice and aims to maintain cleanliness and hygiene in the area.

While the cleanup of homeless encampments on Venice Boulevard contributes to public health and safety, it is crucial to acknowledge that it does not provide a long-term solution to the larger issue of homelessness. The City of Los Angeles is actively working on implementing comprehensive strategies to address the root causes of homelessness and provide essential resources and support to those in need.

The cleanup not only improves the condition of public spaces but also restores the intended use of restrooms. The City of Los Angeles remains dedicated to addressing homelessness in the area and will continue its efforts to find sustainable, long-term solutions.

Overall, the recent clean-up operation in Venice Boulevard marks a significant step forward in improving public health, safety, and the provision of necessary resources to unhoused individuals. The City of Los Angeles remains committed to its ongoing work in addressing homelessness and striving for lasting solutions.
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Fabian Lewkowicz is a Santa Monica-based photojournalist, press photographer, and the creator of the photo blog, Santa Monica Close Up. With years of experience as a staff photographer for several media outlets including the Santa Monica Daily Press, Santa Monica Mirror, Santa Monica Observer, and the Santa Monica Corsair, Fabian has captured some of the most iconic moments of Santa Monica.

Fabian's photographs have been displayed in a variety of settings, including museums, art galleries, hospitals, department stores, banks, fire stations, police stations, commercial buildings, amusement parks, offices, and homes. His photography captures the essence of Santa Monica, from its beautiful landscapes and stunning sunsets to its unique culture and diverse community.

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