Tensions ran high in a Venice, California neighborhood this week as more than 100 residents confronted leaders of two supportive housing programs, saying conditions in the area have worsened and public safety has declined. The meeting reflected growing frustration in the coastal community as neighbors called for stronger oversight, accountability, and immediate changes.
Meeting
The community meeting, held Monday, focused on The Journey Program and Safe Place for Youth, two supportive housing facilities located along Lincoln Boulevard. Both programs opened about 18 months ago as part of efforts to address homelessness in the Venice area.
Residents said conditions in the surrounding neighborhood have deteriorated since the facilities began operating. Several people described increased crime, open drug use, trespassing, and concerns about personal safety, particularly for children and families.
One resident told the crowd that neighbors are now encountering deceased individuals during routine cleanups. Others said they no longer feel comfortable allowing their children to walk alone in the neighborhood.
Resident concerns
Multiple speakers described feeling unsafe and overwhelmed by daily conditions near the housing sites.
One parent said they no longer feel comfortable letting their teenage children walk the dog alone. Another resident said the situation has left neighbors feeling trapped and traumatized in their own community.
Residents and business owners accused the facilities of contributing to illegal dumping, drug activity, and violence, and demanded increased security measures and clearer consequences for problematic behavior.
Housing programs
Venice Community Housing, which is associated with the supportive housing efforts, states on its website that combining stable housing with supportive services is a proven long-term approach to ending homelessness. The organization says it provides trauma-informed services designed to help residents maintain housing, improve health, and become stable members of the community.
During the meeting, some residents questioned whether those goals are being met. One attendee described the programs’ responses as lacking meaningful follow-through, saying residents hear assurances but see little change.
Response from leaders
After the meeting, FOX 11 asked Venice Community Housing Co-Executive Director Allison Riley why she declined on-camera interviews. Riley said she did not want to be interviewed on camera at that time.
When asked about residents’ concerns regarding violence and drug activity spilling into nearby streets, Riley said the organization is working to address the issues and will continue engaging with the community.
City involvement
Los Angeles City Councilmember Traci Park said her office has received complaints from residents for months. She warned that continued problems could put future city funding for the programs at risk.
Park said housing operators are responsible for providing adequate security and ensuring surrounding neighborhoods remain safe. She added that failure to improve conditions could lead to funding being reconsidered.
In a statement posted to her official Facebook page following the meeting, Park thanked residents for attending and said communities have a right to expect accountability when taxpayer dollars are used for homelessness programs. She said her office is working with the Los Angeles Police Department and housing providers to address the concerns.
Ongoing concerns
Despite the statements from city officials and housing leaders, many residents left the meeting unconvinced. Several said they want to see concrete actions rather than continued promises.
One business owner said supportive housing cannot function as an unrestricted environment and that consequences must be enforced when problems arise.
Fox News Digital said it reached out to Councilmember Park, Venice Community Housing, The Journey Program, Safe Place for Youth, and the Los Angeles Police Department for additional comment.
FAQs
Where did the meeting take place?
The meeting was held in the Venice neighborhood of Los Angeles.
Which housing programs were discussed?
The Journey Program and Safe Place for Youth.
What concerns did residents raise?
Residents cited crime, drug activity, and safety issues.
What did city officials say?
Future funding could be reconsidered if conditions do not improve.
Are changes expected soon?
Officials say discussions and oversight efforts are ongoing.
