The Intersection of Security and Social Issues: Tackling Homelessness in Nashville

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Nov. 29, 2024 | by: Solaren Risk Management

The Intersection of Security and Social Issues: Tackling Homelessness in Nashville

Homelessness is a growing issue in America, affecting individuals and families in multiple ways due to economic challenges, housing shortages, and mental health struggles. As a private security company committed to protecting properties and businesses, we regularly encounter Nashville’s homeless population. Our mission is to maintain safe and secure environments while showing compassion toward individuals experiencing homelessness.

Between March 2023 and March 2024, Nashville recorded a 43% increase in chronically homeless individuals, according to Metro Nashville’s Homelessness Dashboard. This tool tracks the progress of initiatives funded by $50 million from the American Rescue Plan (ARP), approved in 2022 to combat this issue (Nashville.gov, 2024). On a national scale, homelessness increased by 12.1% from 2022 to 2023, with states experiencing higher housing costs seeing the largest impacts (USAFacts.org, 2024). The potential causes of this crisis range from economic challenges like unemployment and housing shortages to untreated mental health issues.

How Does This Impact Our Community?

Homelessness presents several challenges to the community. It can lead to increased health risks, which often result in costly hospital treatments funded by taxpayers. Approximately one-third of the homeless population experiences mental health issues, often compounded by medical concerns or addiction. Additionally, addressing this crisis puts an economic strain on the community, as public funds are directed toward housing and outreach programs.

Crime and safety are also pressing concerns when homelessness rises. Desperation can sometimes lead individuals to engage in theft or other criminal activities (UnityParenting.org, 2024). While this is a national issue that requires large-scale solutions, meaningful change begins within our neighborhoods.

The Role of Security in Addressing Homelessness

For security professionals, homelessness presents a unique challenge. There is a delicate balance between addressing issues like trespassing, loitering, and theft while treating homeless individuals with dignity and empathy. Fortunately, Nashville is home to many outreach and shelter programs, including Safe Haven Family Shelter, Nashville Rescue Mission, and Room in the Inn.

At Solaren Risk Management, we actively support these organizations. For example, we participate annually in the Hike for Safe Haven and partner with clients to donate lost-and-found items to the Nashville Rescue Mission.

Our team prioritizes de-escalation training, equipping staff with customer service and communication skills to address security concerns effectively and respectfully. We also employ advanced technology, such as LiveView Technologies’ mobile camera units, to monitor areas where homelessness poses safety challenges. When we interact with homeless individuals, we make it a priority to inform them about available resources and provide support when requested.

Our mission is to create a safer Nashville. While we are dedicated to serving our clients, we also recognize our responsibility to support the broader community.

How You Can Help

“We are safety aware because we care”

Sources:

• Chronic homelessness in Nashville increased 43% over last year
• Nashville and Davidson County Homelessness Data | Nashville.gov
• How Homelessness Affects the Community – Unity Parenting and Counseling