City Councilwoman Quetcy Lozada (D-7th dist.) said she welcomes Council’s and the Parker administration’s attention to the opioid crisis in Kensington, which included action on the 3000 and 3100 blocks of Kensington Ave.
“Our city is bringing much-needed relief, resources, and support to this community,” said Lozada, citing detox, wound care and housing. “I am thankful to the mayor, Rock Ministries, providers and police for changing the lives of these individuals during the encampment resolution.
“Just because the most visible area of the open-air drug market was cleared does not mean the crisis is over. Work will continue to be done. I expect more encampment resolutions, more outreach and more investment.”
Lozada said she hopes the action lowers crime and overdose rates and improves neighborhood health, general cleanliness and overall quality of life.
The councilwoman said people can report drug trafficking by calling the police.
People can request an outreach team from the Office of Homeless Services to visit encampments and offer individuals lifesaving and life-changing services by calling 215-232-1984.
Mayor Cherelle Parker said 59 people accepted housing and services through the 34-day process, which ended May 8.
Employees from the city Office of Homeless Services and Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual DisAbility Services, in partnership with neighborhood-based nonprofits and social services staff, worked to connect people to treatment, shelter and medical care.
Four people were connected to drug and alcohol services.
On May 7, Parker was joined by Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel, Director of Public Safety Adam Geer and Managing Director Adam Thiel at a budget town hall with more than 250 people at Rock Ministries, 2755 Kensington Ave.
Parker outlined her vision to restore Kensington and other neighborhoods ravaged by drug dealing, including the building of a comprehensive, long-term system of care, treatment and housing for people suffering from addiction to substances, mental health challenges and homelessness.
Meanwhile, the Citizens Police Oversight Commission wants to hear from those concerned about the dismantling of the Kensington Homeless Encampment.
Two members of CPOC’s auditing team were present.
CPOC will conduct an after-action review.
CPOC asks anyone who experienced or witnessed police misconduct to call 215-685-0891 or email cpoc@phila.gov to file a complaint.
Any agencies or groups that witnessed or observed the clearing that want to share their perspective on the police presence can also contact CPOC. ••
