Venice, Los Angeles - April 26, 2024: A comprehensive cleanup operation focusing on a homeless encampment was conducted at Venice Beach, involving a multi-agency task force. The team included Los Angeles Police Park Rangers, Los Angeles Police Officers, the City of Los Angeles Department of Public Works, Recreation and Parks, Clean Harbors Environmental Inc., the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA), and Councilwoman Traci Park's Housing Coordinator.

The presence of Los Angeles Police Officers and Park Rangers ensured that the cleanup was executed smoothly and safely. This operation was a collaborative effort between the Department of Public Works, Recreation and Parks, and Clean Harbors Environmental Inc., where team members, equipped with protective gear, focused on differentiating and properly disposing of hazardous from non-hazardous waste.

This initiative forms a crucial part of the City of Los Angeles' ongoing strategy to manage homelessness and enhance public health and sanitation, showcasing a strong commitment to these critical urban issues.

Additionally, the cleanup at Venice Beach includes a weekly focus on beach restrooms, often utilized as shelters by homeless individuals, aiming to improve public amenities and directly address the issue of homelessness. During these operations, LAHSA provides vital support services such as food, water, and hygiene kits to the homeless, embodying a compassionate and thorough approach.

Significantly, no citations for public camping violations were issued during the operation, highlighting the city's preference for supportive and sustainable solutions rather than punitive measures.

This activity is part of a broader set of regular actions, including cleanups every Friday along the Venice Beach Boardwalk, all supervised by Los Angeles Park Rangers. Such efforts are integral to the city’s larger strategy, which not only focuses on maintaining cleanliness and safety but also addresses the immediate and underlying causes of homelessness. Effective coordination by Councilwoman Traci Park has been pivotal in these endeavors, emphasizing a balanced and humane approach to tackling homelessness.

''''''''''''''''''''
Fabian Lewkowicz is an award-winning Santa Monica-based professional photojournalist and 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 exhibited 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.

Support Santa Monica Closeup by making a One Time Donation via PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/fabia...

Make a One Time Donation via Venmo: https://venmo.com/u/santamonicacloseup

Follow us on Instagram:   / santamonicacloseup  

Follow us on Facebook:   / santamonicacloseup  

Join this channel to gain access to perks:
   / @santamonicacloseup  

For licensing of this video email [email protected]

TAGS: Photojournalism, Photojournalist, Documentary, Cinema Verite, Fly-on-the-wall, Observational Photography, Press Photography

This video is intended solely for personal use. Any form of copying, re-uploading, sampling or other unauthorized use is strictly prohibited.

(C) 2024 Fabian Lewkowicz/Santa Monica Closeup. All Rights Reserved.