What is a
Homeless Sweep?

The City of Pittsburgh has routinely cleared out encampments under bridges, in parks and other public areas where the homeless congregate and sleep since 2001.
 
The homeless, who are usually absent during the sweeps, lose clothing and blankets, medications and valuable personal effects such as photographs, papers, identification, jewelry and books when the sweep occurs. 

These few possessions have particular value to the homeless because often, it is all they own.

The Homeless Outreach Coordinating Committee has taken an active role in advocating for the rights of the homeless affected by the sweeps.

Related Articles

Homelessness: Hoping to Avoid Sweeping Changes - 5/18/06

 Illegal to be Homeless: National Homeless Alliance (8/03)

 ACLU sues City over Homeless Sweeps - TR (5/6/03)  

 Dispute settled on homeless sweeps - PG (5/10/03) 

 Letter to the Editor: About City Lawyers - PG (5/12/03)

 Privacy Precious to City Homeless - TR (5/12/03)

 ACLU Settlement with the City of Pittsburgh - (5/9/03)