Everett's initiative to tackle homelessness starting to pay off

EVERETT — Everett's attempt to get control of its chronic problems with homelessness are starting to yield concrete results.
More people are obtaining treatment for their addictions or mental health problems, finding homes and getting jobs.

This has been the result of stepped-up police patrols, more involvement with social service providers and the introduction of new programs in the Everett Municipal Court.

Gene Martin, a formerly homeless alcoholic, is now working as a janitor in Bothell thanks in large part to the city's intervention on his behalf.

Martin said it's been at least five years since he's had a real job with a paycheck, even if it's a long commute by bus, the work is hard and the pay isn't very good.

“I'm really happy to be back at work,” he said. “It gives me some self-respect.”

He was once one of a handful of people identified as a chronic utilizer of emergency services. The city continues to focus on others.

http://www.heraldnet.com/article/20160421/NEWS01/160429839