New CEO Christine Frederick Aims to Combat Homelessness in Palm Beach

South Palm Beach, Florida, USA - In Palm Beach County, the winds of change are blowing, ushering in new leadership and promising developments in the fight against homelessness. Recently appointed Christine Frederick, the new CEO of The Lord’s Place, is gearing up to tackle the challenges that lie ahead. With 25 years of experience in Broward County, Frederick aims to transform Palm Beach County into a community where affordable, safe, and stable housing is accessible to all. Her vision is clear, advocating for a community initiative to support those experiencing homelessness while enhancing existing services.

The statistics paint a complex picture. While West Palm Beach has been recognized as the fourth „World’s Fastest Growing Wealth Hub“ according to Henley & Partners, we can’t ignore the pressing issue of homelessness, which has seen a staggering 33% increase over a decade. Frederick points out the urgent need for intervention amid a backdrop where the number of millionaires has surged by 112% from 2014 to 2024. This contrast highlights the necessity for a concerted effort in addressing homelessness in our affluent community.

Recent Successes in Addressing Homelessness

Encouraging news comes from a recent report by CBS12, revealing a significant 28% decrease in homelessness in Palm Beach County compared to the previous year. The latest Point in Time (PIT) Count reported 1,520 individuals experiencing homelessness, down from 2,126 in 2024. This decrease is commendable, especially when considering the 10% drop in homeless veterans and a 21% decline in homeless seniors. Chronic homelessness has also decreased by 30%, a reflection of the combined efforts of various organizations.

Wendy Tippett, the director of PBC Community Services Department Human Services and Community Action Division, emphasizes the importance of utilizing PIT Count data for making informed decisions and providing essential services. Conducted by over 200 volunteers, this meticulous survey aimed to capture the true extent of homelessness throughout the county, covering shelters, wooded areas, and abandoned buildings over a 24-hour period in late January.

The Lord’s Place: A Beacon of Hope

As The Lord’s Place celebrates 45 years of service, it continues to be a beacon of hope for many. The organization not only provides food and resources through its Fortin Family Campus but also connects those in need to a wealth of community resources and housing options through its dedicated Street Outreach Team. Furthermore, the CARE team focuses on clients with behavioral health issues, substance abuse, and medical conditions. Importantly, Frederick highlights the necessity to break the cycle of trauma associated with homelessness, especially among children and youth.

The Lord’s Place operates various programs, including Café Joshua, which offers job training and placement services, alongside clinical care coordination and a reentry program for those transitioning back into society. They currently manage 15 supportive and graduate housing locations along with 82 scattered site apartments, providing safe shelter for about 300 individuals each night. Frederick invites community members to join in the efforts to end homelessness, fostering a sense of collective responsibility.

Collaboration and commitment are at the heart of the county’s approach. A partnership with the Homeless and Housing Alliance is paving the way for the construction of a 74-bed Central County Housing Resource Center and plans for building 17 cottage homes for families. Recruitment of landlords, prevention of evictions, and coordination with shelters and a dedicated call center are all part of the strategic efforts to provide comprehensive help.

Indeed, in the rich tapestry of Palm Beach County, there’s something to be said for the progress being made against homelessness. With strong leadership, community engagement, and innovative solutions, the dream of a Palm Beach County where everyone has a home is slowly but surely becoming a reality.