ORLANDO, Fla. – The Orlando City Council is set to vote Monday on a $150,000 funding agreement with the Coalition for the Homeless, part of an effort to provide shelter for people at risk under the city’s camping ban.
The partnership targets families, those in dangerous situations and victims of domestic violence.
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The move follows Florida’s “Unauthorized Public Camping and Public Sleeping” law, which has banned camping in public places statewide since Oct. 1, 2024.
Eric Camarillo, executive director of SALT Outreach, called the funding a critical step for Orlando.
“Honestly, I think it’s really great that the city is investing in making sure that there’s guaranteed beds at the shelter for people... if there’s someone violating the public camping ordinance, you know, there’s going to be a space for them to go. And as opposed to jail... making sure there’s shelter beds available for people so they don’t end up in jail. I mean, that’s, I think that’s great that they’re doing that,” Camarillo said.
Most eligible guests will only be able to stay for one night, given Orlando’s limited shelter capacity.
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Camarillo noted the shortage of beds has made it harder for those seeking help.
“I hope that there’s going to be more soon, because it’s needed. It’s definitely needed,” he said.
The vote follows recent efforts including new shelter programs and the launch of the 407 Connect bus, which provides transportation and access to services for unhoused residents.