At CFTH, we constantly seek innovative ways to reach and support the most vulnerable populations in our community. Recently, we embarked on a unique and impactful collaboration with the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) to conduct homeless outreach along Sims Bayou—a mission that highlights the importance of partnerships in our ongoing efforts to end homelessness.

The idea for this joint operation was born during a routine outreach session on Sims Bayou when our team met members of the Coast Guard. We realized that partnering with the USCG Coast Guard would allow us to access hard-to-reach areas and provide critical services. Molly Permenter, a Coast Guard veteran on our outreach team, said, "It was a great way to connect with other agencies and reach people we couldn't normally access by foot."

The Coast Guard's expertise and resources enabled us to explore densely wooded areas, small overpasses, and bridges—places where people experiencing homelessness often seek shelter. On these missions, we discovered "hotspots," — areas where homelessness is particularly concentrated — and encountered individuals coming out from under overpasses to receive water and check- in. Mapping these locations will facilitate further outreach efforts, potentially on foot, if conditions allow.

Jack Skinner, Commanding Officer of the Coast Guard in Houston said, "Our overall goal with this outreach effort was to help provide a public service to our local communities while expanding our partnerships and helping to take outreach members to places that they normally would not be able to reach by land. Engaging with the homeless and with the outreach team members has been rewarding and eye-opening for our crews."

Skinner also highlighted some challenges: "One challenge we face is trying to transfer team members ashore from our boats. It can be very challenging when the banks along the bayou are overgrown and not conducive to easily jumping over to land to contact the homeless. Another challenge is that our boats can’t always get close to shore, and we are still a good way away from being able to talk with people."

The participation of partners including precinct 2 Constable Sargent Perez and Hope Haven Housing Navigator and Assessor Johnathan Spears further enhanced our efforts. This multi-agency collaboration highlights a fundamental truth: ending homelessness requires united efforts. By leveraging each other's strengths, we can reach and support those in need, no matter how hidden. The journey along Sims Bayou reminds us that we are stronger and more effective when we work together.