June 22, 2022 Weekly Encampment Report (Pierce & Kitsap Counties)

Over 80 homeless encampment residents were seen by 4 Pierce County Medical Reserve Nurses and 2 Tacoma Pierce County Public Health case workers in two Tacoma-area shelters this week on June 22; 1 gentleman was seen on an emergency basis in Kitsap county on June 23 per a referral by Kitsap County HEART director. There are many more encampments, but waiting on others to get back to record data related to medical needs of others living unsheltered in Pierce County. Pierce County: Between the encampments on Pacific & 35th and 15th & G, there was an increase from approximately 54 to 80 in one week. Pierce County caseworkers report sweeps occurred this week which may account for the increase in the two encampments we visited on June 22. Concern for this weekend is the rise in temperatures. Water was dispersed as was information on s/s heatstroke and ways to keep cool while living unsheltered. The Tacoma Pierce County Coalition and the City of Tacoma are anticipating needs of unsheltered residents, but concern is it won't be enough. Consider keeping water in your car as you move about this weekend in case you see a need among our homeless neighbors. Kitsap County: In Kitsap county, an unfortunate gentleman who suffered from morbid obesity has been living in his car for about a year and had been incapicitated and very ill. He was monitored for a couple days before being transported to St. Michael's Hospital in Silverdale. Waiting to hear what the plan is for him as he was in critical condition when he was transported. Common medical conditions seen this week included acute and chronic coughs, illnesses such as strokes, congestive heart failure and diabetes, wounds, addictions, muscle and bone pain, weakness requiring wheelchair assistance. Ages seen this week were from 18 years to an 85 year old Veteran who chose to stay in an encampment with his grandson.