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Every Neighbor Matters
In 2022, Paramount had 59 homeless individuals counted through its partnership with City Net, a non-profit that assists with homeless outreach count. It was later reported that 70% of those experiencing homelessness in Paramount have ties to the city, having grown up, attended school or previously lived here. Within Paramount, a strong tradition of community care drives the City’s efforts to support residents experiencing homelessness.
This dedication is exemplified through the leadership of Steve Coumparoules, the City’s Community Preservation Manager, who has been at the forefront of advancing local initiatives aimed at securing stable housing for all Paramount community members.
“Our goal has been clear from the start — to provide pathways to stable housing for everyone in our community,” said Coumparoules. “We have made substantial progress through collaboration and increasing support from City and County resources.”
Central to Paramount’s strategy is the Homeless Outreach Plan, designed to integrate proactive in-person outreach with strategic partnerships. Since 2018, the original three-year plan has grown into a five-year plan to focus on long-term solutions and connect individuals with relevant housing options, health services, and employment resources.
A pivotal development in this effort has been Paramount’s decision to conduct its own homeless count that goes beyond observational counts to engage directly with individuals in need. This initiative not only identifies residents experiencing homelessness, but also offers essential services and support, while taking time to understand their unique stories and needs.
Since the last homeless census in 2024, Paramount has made significant strides in addressing homelessness. With a count of 43 individuals in 2024, Paramount has reduced its population of unhoused neighbors by 31% in two years. Paramount engaged with 93 individuals in 2024, connecting them with services through the Salvation Army Bell Shelter. Additionally, 49 families were referred to Steve, 18 of which accepted housing services and five were permanently housed with funding from the Permanent Local Housing Allocation program.
Through innovation, collaboration, and compassionate action, Paramount continues to build a stronger, more inclusive community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. As Coumparoules puts it, “Whether you are visiting Paramount, staying temporarily, or a permanent resident, you are our neighbor now.”
If you see an unhoused neighbor or notice anyone struggling with their physical or mental health, you can make a difference.
Visit https://www.lahsa.org/portal/apps/la-hop/ to connect them with essential services and support.
For more Paramount’s Homeless Outreach Services, visit: https://www.paramountcity.gov/residents/public-safety/homeless-outreach-services/ or call (562) 220-2002.
