City of OKC
Planning Department MenuA Better Way
A Better Way is a local version of a groundbreaking employment program offering beautification work to people who panhandle.
It's inspired by a similar program in Tulsa and other communities. Want to help? Get involved here with Mental Health Association Oklahoma or donate.
How it works
A mobile outreach van visits panhandling hotspots in Oklahoma City from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.
The program offers people lunch and a $65 daily wage for work like litter removal in parks and other public areas. A case worker helps connect them with, and guide them through, services like:
- Mental and physical healthcare
- Substance use counseling
- Federal and state benefits
- Housing
- Transportation
- Training
An employment specialist networks with local employers to find long-term work for successful participants.
How you can help
A Better Way needs employers for program participants, and cash donations or sponsorships to fund the program itself. Contact Mental Health Association Oklahoma here to learn more.
Who is behind A Better Way?
A Better Way is a partnership:
- Mental Health Association Oklahoma operates the program day to day.
- United Way of Central Oklahoma provided $120,000 in seed money, along with $10,000 from Inasmuch Foundation.
- The City of Oklahoma City contributed $150,000 in start-up funding, plus the van.
- Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma donates boxed lunches for participants.
- You can help by donating or providing employment opportunities for successful participants. Learn more here.
What other City of Oklahoma City programs support people who are homeless?
A Better Way is specifically tied to panhandling, but many people who panhandle also experience homelessness. But A Better Way is only one of the City of Oklahoma City’s efforts to end homelessness.
Home OKC in the Planning Department manages City programs for people experiencing homelessness, including those tied to federal grants. Visit okc.gov/homeokc for more.
The Mayor’s Task Force on Homelessness recently developed its 2021 Strategies to Address Homelessness, a 24-strategy plan to work on problems locally. Read it here at okc.gov/homeokc.
MAPS 4 also includes $50 million specifically for homelessness, plus $40 million for mental health and addiction, $38 million for a Family Justice Center operated by Palomar, $17 million for a criminal justice Diversion Hub and more. Visit okc.gov okc.gov/maps4 for details.