PATH - LOS ANGELES SOS (STREETS OR SERVICES) PROGRAM

The SOS Program is a pilot program that is designed as a structured alternative to the traditional court system that provides positive solutions for the participants as well as restorative services to the community.

Individuals who are processed for non-violent, non-drug-related quality of life issues will now have the option of choosing this social service approach or to return to the traditional court system. Through SOS, cited individuals can meet with a Resource Coordinator and develop an individualized social service plan that will address the circumstances that led to their citation. Individuals who are deemed eligible, and who choose to participate, will be connected to essential services such as emergency housing, mental health care, substance abuse treatment, employment assistance, education and vocational training provided by a collaborative of experienced and compassionate social service providers. In addition, each participant will be assigned a community service project or downtown clean-up team to give participants a sense of ownership and investment in their community. Non-participants, or individuals who do not choose the SOS Program, will be referred to the traditional court process of resolving citations.

The current method of addressing quality of life offenses is an endless pattern of citation, arrest, possible jail time, and then back to the streets to begin the cycle again. The SOS Program will give individuals a chance to break this engulfing legal cycle by empowering them to make positive choices and overcome their personal challenges. Through coordinated care and an extensive array of services, individuals can step off of the streets and into a life that is productive and stable.

The SOS Program is administered by the Mayor's Criminal Justice Planning Office, in cooperation with the Office of the City Attorney and L.A.P.D. The program is coordinated by P.A.T.H. in collaboration with The Midnight Mission, Public Counsel Law Center, URM Foundation, Volunteer Center of Los Angeles and Volunteers of America

For more information please contact Maggie Willis at (323) 644-2200.