Last week, I had the chance to do a “ridealong” with the Roseville Police Department’s Community
Action Team (CAT). Officer Sean and Kari (Housing Navigator) allowed me to go on their weekly check-
ins on homeless people within Roseville. It was in the high 80’s and very sunny.
We started by dropping a housing application with a family staying at an area motel. Unfortunately, the
wait for such housing is months long and the family may not be able to stay at the hotel until more
permanent housing becomes available. They checked on activities in the hotel parking lot and
commented on recent meetings with the hotel owners. Next, we went to visit some of the “sign-ers” –
the people who stand on the corners and ask for money from motorists. The first signer was not known
to the CAT team. They got out of the car (the officer in a “soft” uniform to be less intimidating) and were
quick to alert the gentleman that he was not in trouble. They provided cold water, a business card, and
snacks and got back information, including his name. They entered this info in their system because
every person they work with has a case and a name. A later signer was shirtless and very sunburnt. He
was offered sunscreen, and given toiletries at his request. This signer was staying at an area shelter. Also
new to the Roseville CAT, the man appreciated the offer of assistance.
To a tent on private property. The tenter, employed at an area big box restaurant, was not at home. He
is often seen biking late at night but has not responded to the CAT request to move his tent off private
property.
The CAT team headed to a couple with whom they have a long relationship. They spent a long time
addressing health, mental health, and personal issues. Suggestions were offered for coping with the
heat. The time and attention to the specific needs of the people involved was amazing. “This is Officer
Sean and Kari, with a friend?” was called out at each stop. It is clear that it has taken thoughtful
consideration and a lot of time to build trust with people who have had so many issues in their lives.
Finally, we met with a woman affectionately considered “the mom”. Not until our 3rd attempt were we
able to speak with her because she had people stopping and sitting with her to talk. She needed
assistance with personal matters and Kari was quick to offer resources and ideas on solutions to
logistical problems. And yet, the woman was empowered to make decisions that worked for her. “The
mom” had been injured when a passerby had assaulted her. She was afraid to call the police but the
officers reminded her to let them know that she works with the CAT team when she calls, so that Sean
and Kari could follow up with her directly.
The homeless are in Roseville. We can choose to ignore or criminalize their behavior or humanize them
as the CAT team seeks to do. I was honored to shadow them and witness their important work. Each
person has a name and a story. I’m immensely thankful to know that Roseville cares so deeply.