| Homelessness is skyrocketing—up 18% nationwide—as cities buckle under the weight of unaffordable housing, migration spikes, and failing policies. Here in Dallas, the crisis hits hard. But hope is on the horizon: Dallas HERO is rallying residents to tackle encampments head-on. Citing Texas Penal Code §48.05, which bans camping in public spaces without permission, Dallas HERO has delivered a 60-day notice to the city, urging leaders to enforce the law. |
| Their case is clear: inaction jeopardizes public safety and hinders real solutions for homelessness. Armed with Proposition S, Dallas HERO urges residents to document encampments and share photos. This grassroots effort aims to spotlight the problem and drive meaningful change. The national outlook is grim: over 770,000 people were counted as homeless this year, with family homelessness surging nearly 40%. While Dallas allegedly saw a 16% drop in homelessness over two years, encampments continue to grow, transforming public spaces into sprawling makeshift camps. Just like Keep Dallas Safe, Dallas HERO supports proven models like San Antonio’s Haven for Hope, which combines housing and services to help people transition out of homelessness. Both stress that allowing encampments to persist deepens the crisis, endangers safety, and blocks progress. Now is the moment for bold action in Dallas. Will we let encampments keep spreading, or will we embrace smart, compassionate solutions to reclaim public spaces and provide real, lasting help? |
| Check out our Homelessness and Camps Tracker to see the camps we’re monitoring. Know of one we missed? Hit the “Get in Touch” button to share its location. Together, we can reclaim public spaces, push for real solutions, and make a lasting impact on our city. |
Visit our Homelessness and Camps Tracker
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Tracking Illegal Camps:
District 2, Councilman Jesse Moreno
“Freeway Fortress”
Under the E R L Thornton Freeway, a sidewalk is overrun with tents, turning public space into a private camp and creating safety concerns for nearby residents and businesses. This growing encampment is a visible reminder of neglect and inaction. Council Member Jesse Moreno, when will District 2 reclaim these areas for the community? It’s time for leadership to act decisively and prioritize the well-being of all residents.
District 2, Councilman Jesse Moreno
“Trash Trail Takeover”
At I-30 E near the Farmers Market, piles of trash block pathways, leaving residents to navigate a hazardous mess that’s both unsightly and unsafe. This area, once bustling with community activity, now serves as a glaring symbol of neglect and inaction. Council Member Jesse Moreno, how much longer will this continue? The community deserves better—clean, safe spaces that reflect the pride and potential of District 2. Leadership must deliver real, lasting solutions.
District 11, Councilwoman Jaynie Schultz
“U-Turn Boulevard Beggar”
A lone panhandler occupies the LBJ Freeway Frontage Road, creating safety risks for commuters and a growing sense of frustration for residents. This busy area deserves better than being reduced to a hub for unchecked activity. Council Member Jaynie Schultz, when will District 11 address these recurring problems and reclaim public spaces? It’s time for leadership to prioritize public safety and ensure these spaces serve their intended purpose.
