City of Los Angeles Conducts Collaborative Cleanup Operation at Homeless Encampments in Venice

On Thursday, July 6, 2023, the City of Los Angeles Department of Public Works, in partnership with Action Cleanup Environmental Services, carried out a thorough cleanup operation targeting a homeless encampment located on Grand Canal, Canal St., and Mildred Ave. in Venice. The primary objective of this initiative was to address notable health and safety concerns affecting both the unhoused individuals and the general public. During the operation, sanitation workers, wearing white hazardous materials suits, strictly adhered to safety protocols.

LAHSA (Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority) played a crucial role in providing homeless outreach services during the cleanup, offering assistance and support to those affected.

The cleanup operation involved the coordinated efforts of two waste management teams. Initially, Action Cleanup Environmental Services sorted through the garbage to identify and collect hazardous waste items, including batteries, urine, and syringes. Subsequently, Los Angeles Public Works sanitation workers took charge of collecting the remaining garbage.

To ensure the safety of all involved individuals and secure compliance from the unhoused population, Los Angeles Police Officers maintained a constant presence throughout the entire cleanup operation, which aimed to maintain cleanliness and hygiene in the area.

While the cleanup of homeless encampments in Venice has positive effects on public health and safety, it is important to recognize that it does not offer a long-term solution to the broader 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 City of Los Angeles remains committed to tackling homelessness in the area and will continue its endeavors to find sustainable, long-term solutions.

Overall, the recent cleanup operation in Venice signifies a significant step forward in enhancing public health, safety, and the provision of necessary resources to unhoused individuals. The City of Los Angeles remains dedicated 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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