Chatsworth Encampment Cleared, 22 Homeless People Moved Indoors During Heatwave

LOS ANGELES, CA — Twenty-two homeless people were moved from a Chatsworth encampment into interim housing this week as dangerously hot temperatures gripped the region, Mayor Karen Bass’ office announced.

The Inside Safe operation targeted an encampment near Lurline Avenue and Nordhoff Street in Chatsworth. Outreach workers spent several weeks meeting with people living there before the housing placements were completed, according to the mayor’s office.

The operation was conducted in partnership with Los Angeles City Councilmember John Lee, whose 12th District includes Chatsworth.

“Extreme heat can be deadly, and no Angeleno should have to face those conditions while living on the streets,” Bass said in a statement.

All 22 residents were taken to air-conditioned interim housing and connected with case managers and supportive services intended to help them find permanent housing, city officials said.

After the residents left, city crews removed tents and debris from sidewalks near surrounding businesses.

“This operation is a win for everyone,” Lee said. “People are now indoors and connected to services, while the surrounding neighborhood is cleaner, safer and more accessible for the businesses and residents who rely on it every day.”

Two brothers who had been living at the encampment said they became homeless after their father died in 2020, according to the mayor’s office. The Van Nuys natives, identified as Augustin and Ruben, said they were looking forward to escaping the heat and receiving help finding work and medical care.

The effort marked the 135th Inside Safe operation since the homelessness initiative launched three years ago, the mayor’s office said.