CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Fla. — Charlotte County is taking a compassionate and collaborative stance on homelessness, actively working to provide support instead of punishment for those facing this challenging situation.
TEAM EFFORT: How Charlotte County is tackling homelessness
In October 2024, Florida enacted a law prohibiting public camping and sleeping (HB 1365), accompanied by a provision that permits civil action against local authorities failing to enforce this ban. Yet, amidst these regulations, Charlotte County’s approach stands out as a testament to human decency.
The sheriff’s office reports that instances of unhoused individuals camping or sleeping on public property are infrequent in Charlotte County—a stark contrast to many regions across the state.
“Charlotte County’s challenges with homelessness differ from those in other areas because we have been addressing this issue for years,” stated Deputy First Class Lou Henyecz from the Community Policing Unit. His statement embodies a belief that thoughtful, long-term strategies yield more constructive outcomes.
Community service organizations have formed robust partnerships here, fostering a collaborative spirit that transcends simple outreach. Since the opening of the Charlotte County Family Services Center in Port Charlotte in 2021, over 15 organizations have pooled their resources and expertise in this single location. Together, they weave a safety net that catches those who might otherwise slip through the cracks.
Located at 21500 Gibralter Drive in Port Charlotte, the Family Services Center embodies a visionary approach to tackling homelessness. It is a hub where services converge, and people in need find a warmth often missing in bureaucratic solutions.
“It’s a new vision that is working remarkably well,” Henyecz noted with palpable pride. “Honestly, I don’t think there’s anything else like this in the state. Here, we engage in casework, discussing individuals’ needs with various groups, and collectively determining the best path forward.”
Beyond the basics of housing, these collaborative efforts extend a lifeline to those needing rehabilitation, mental health support, and job placements. An impressive statistic illustrates the impact: over 800 individuals have secured housing through these partnerships since 2021, reflecting a concerted and successful effort.
The new legislation also indicates that when local shelters reach their limits, governments must allocate specific areas for camping—provided they ensure access to essential services like running water and security. However, Charlotte County officials do not plan to designate such areas now, despite the Charlotte Cares Center, the sole shelter in the region, operating at full capacity. Currently, the largest encampment, estimated to house around 50 individuals, occupies private property close to the shelter.
A view of a bed at the Charlotte Cares Center reveals not just a physical space, but a lifeline for those in distress. Henyecz, along with his colleagues, is committed to fostering a community dialogue centered on compassion instead of criminalization. “Our focus remains on providing support rather than punishing those who find themselves sleeping outdoors,” he emphasized, reiterating the county’s philosophy.
He expressed hope, reflecting a shared aspiration that one day they might eliminate homelessness in Charlotte County. “That’s the ultimate goal,” Henyecz concluded, his voice imbued with determination.
