Homeless Encampment Action, Response, and Transitions (HEART) Program

Program Overview

Launched in April 2022, the HEART (Homeless Encampment Action, Response, and Transitions) Program is Kitsap County's compassionate approach to addressing unauthorized homeless encampments on county property. 

Our goal is to lead with compassion while addressing community concerns. We focus on helping people find stable housing and services rather than just moving encampments from place to place. The program follows clear guidelines approved by county commissioners in 2021, ensuring our response is consistent, coordinated, and centered on the people we serve. Read the 2021 homeless encampment response policy here.

The HEART program coordinator leads a team that connects individuals experiencing homelessness with housing resources and support services. We partner with personnel across other Kitsap County departments, community partner organizations, and Kitsap Community Resources' Housing Solutions Center with the support of a HEART program advisory team to provide on-the-ground outreach.

Leading with Compassion
Download this HEART Program Presentation (pdf)

News and Events

Encampment Response Process
​Reports about unauthorized encampments should be made through Kitsap1. Once the HEART Program receives a complaint, the HEART Coordinator will:
  1. 1.  Respond to the person making the complaint to gather more information about the encampment.
  2. 2.  Complete a parcel search to see if the property is owned by the county.
  3. 3.  Schedule a visit to an encampment when it is found to be a county owned property.
  4. 4. Assess the encampment and write a report of the findings.
  5. 5.  Bring the findings to the HEART Advisory Team, who will determine next steps for responding to the encampment.
Download the Reporting Encampments Handout (.pdf) (updated 9/26/2022)

Frequently Asked Questions

 What is the HEART Coordinator?

The HEART Coordinator organizes Kitsap County encampment response efforts among county departments and community partners. 

 What is the HEART Advisory Team?

The HEART Advisory Team is made up of representatives of county departments that interact with encampments and representatives from non-profit organizations that provide resources to people living in encampments.

 How long does it take to close an encampment?

Closing an encampment may take as long as a few months. Case law and legal requirements governing a jurisdiction’s response to encampments on public property is complex and includes many different steps that Kitsap County must follow. The number of people living in an encampment, its location, safety issues, and health concerns are some of the factors considered when determining a timeframe for closing an encampment. In addition, Kitsap County has limited resources for this work, so timing can also depend on what other encampments the HEART Program is also working with at the time.

 How can I get involved?

Download the Help You Can Help People Living Homeless (.pdf) brochure for information about ways to get involved and support organization and services in Kitsap County


 What can be done if the encampment is on private property?

If an encampment is on private property, you can contact the Kitsap Public Heath District to Submit an Inquiry or Concern. Click the link and select "Report a public health concern" and follow the steps you will initiate a site visit by a Health District inspector. 

You can also call 9-1-1 to receive assistance from a law enforcement officer.

Download the HEART Program FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions (.pdf) (coming soon)

Need help?
​

Kitsap1 is your first call for County services and questions. 

Call 360.337.5777 or email help@kitsap1.com

Open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 

Closed weekends and holidays

You can also report encampments using the SeeClickFix app - visit the Kitsap1 page for more information.

 Resources for Private Property Owners

Reporting an encampment on public property

If an encampment is on private property, please contact the Kitsap Public Heath District to Submit an Inquiry or Concern and select Report a public health concern. Follow the steps and complete the form to initiate a site visit by a Health District inspector. 

For additional support please call 9-1-1 to receive assistance from a law enforcement officer.

Annual Year-End Review
​
HEART Program 2025 Year-End Review (coming soon)
HEART Program 2024 Year-End Review (coming soon)


Point-In-Time Count*

(PIT Count)

*Annual one-day survey that counts and gathers information about people experiencing homelessness.


Severe Weather Shelters

Questions about the HEART Program? Contact Derrick Means, program coordinator to report an encampment by calling Kitsap1 at 360.337.5777 or email help@kitsap1.com.

For media inquiries and program updates contact Carl Borg, program manager by email at ceborg.kitsap.gov.