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1. What is the city doing to address the growing issue of homelessness in our community?

We are actively engaged in various efforts to prevent and address homelessness in our community.

• We continually evaluate and improve our care system for people experiencing homelessness.
• The Coordinated Entry System provides a comprehensive assessment and referral of needs for individuals and families seeking housing and services.
• We continually seek out opportunities to increase the supply of affordable housing.
•  Educate the public on aggressive panhandling and public camping to reduce the negative impacts of homelessness.
• Participate in regional programs through the Metro Dallas Homeless Alliance (MDHA).

2. What city resources are being put towards the issue?

• We financially support nonprofit organizations whose mission is to provide food and shelter services to those who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.
• The McKinney Police Department's Community Services Unit engages with our homeless population and helps with referrals for mental health, substance abuse and housing.
• We are working with community partners to develop additional affordable housing options, especially for older adults on fixed incomes and persons with disabilities who cannot work.
• We've created and expanded several Homeless Services programs.
• We've also initiated a “Have a Heart/Give Smart” anti-panhandling information program to discourage residents from giving to individuals panhandling. Our reputation for compassion and generosity has led to a problem with panhandlers who are not homeless and do not reside in McKinney. Through this campaign, we hope to raise awareness of the issue and get resources to where they will do the most good.

3. Is there a homeless shelter within the city limits?

No. There is no homeless shelter in Collin County. 

• Transitional Housing Program: The Samaritan Inn, 1514 N. McDonald St., operates a transitional housing program for people experiencing homelessness who meet specific criteria.
• Overnight Winter Warming Shelter: Emmanuel Labor and the Salvation Army, 600 Wilson Creek Pkwy., operates an overnight warming shelter in winter when the temperature is forecasted to be below 32 degrees.
• Cooling Station: The works with the Red Cross and the Salvation Army, 600 Wilson Creek Pkwy., operates a cooling station in the summers when the heat index reaches 100 degrees or more.

4. Why are the homeless allowed to hang out all day in city parks, libraries and around downtown?

Being homeless is not a crime. Resting, standing and sleeping in public areas is not illegal. Homeless people enjoy the same rights and protections as others and are allowed to be in public areas.

• Public libraries are open to all residents, including those experiencing homelessness. No library patron is allowed to be disruptive, and disruptive behavior should be reported to library staff.
• The activity becomes unlawful if illegal behavior or actions are taken. For example:
• Possessing an open container of alcohol
• Public urination or defecation
• Aggressive panhandling
• Other prohibited or illegal activities.

If you observe anyone engaging in illegal behaviors, please call the Police Department’s non-emergency line at 972-547-2700.

5. If camping is prohibited within the city limits on city property, why do I see people sleeping on benches or in their cars?

Resting or sleeping is not illegal. "Camping" is established by the use of camping equipment. Police and code enforcement officers usually give "campers" an opportunity to comply with city ordinance and encourage them to seek community services.

In the case of an established encampment, individuals or groups are given a 72-hour notice to remove their belongings and are provided with community resources information and referrals.

The city’s ultimate goal is to connect those living on the streets or encampments with services, shelter, and housing rather than moving them to other areas.

6. What is the Mayor's Task Force on Homelessness and what is it doing to help the situation?

• The Mayor’s Task Force on Homelessness includes members from Collin County, City Council, homeless advocates and service providers, the business community, mental health professionals, and law enforcement. The task force meets quarterly to develop strategies to address homelessness issues.
• One strategy seeks to increase accountability for those individuals who refuse services and engage in illegal behaviors. Part of this effort includes a dedicated Community Services team within the McKinney Police Department, which includes a mental health professional.
• Another strategy is the “Have a Heart/Give Smart” anti-panhandling program which emphasizes the importance of donating to social service providers within McKinney rather than directly to panhandlers.

7. If the city is investing more in homeless resource programs, why are we seeing an increase in homeless people? Are the city’s efforts attracting more homeless people?

While our homeless population isn't necessarily increasing, it is becoming more visible. Removing homeless encampments increases the visibility of homelessness as former residents look for new places to live.

Factors that may contribute to the homeless population:

• Collin County is one of Texas’ most expensive housing markets. In a 2019 survey of those experiencing homelessness, 42% cited the inability to pay for housing as the reason they were homeless.
• The formerly incarcerated may choose to become part of the homeless population if they do not have a place to go upon release. The Collin County Jail and the city work to provide resources for the newly released to prevent this outcome.
• People who experienced a mental health crisis sometimes join the homeless population aftercare. Medical staff work to provide resources for their patients upon release to prevent this outcome.