Littleton’s Compassionate Response. Addressing Homelessness in 2023

LITTLETON — While homelessness is nothing new in town, a segment of the homeless population in 2023 has three known encampments in the community and is becoming more visible. As the year winds down, the town’s police department is maintaining a positive relationship with the homeless population and is working with a growing number partners and nonprofits to connect those without homes to the services that they need and get them a roof over their heads before winter hits.  On Thursday, Littleton Police Chief Paul Smith spoke of the town’s most recent approach to the homeless population. “My department specifically, and working with the town manager, we’re trying to do more of a proactive approach to addressing the homeless in our community rather than isolating them and trying to vilify their existence,” he said. A recent meeting included Littleton Police, Tri-County Community Action Program, mental health professionals from Northern Human Services, municipal welfare representatives, individuals representing the housing and transportation sectors, and other nonprofit groups that included Artisans With A Mission.