Sacramento County is taking a technological leap in its efforts to address homelessness. As part of its recently approved $8.9 billion budget for the 2025-26 fiscal year, the county has greenlit the use of drones to locate homeless encampments.

The initiative, spearheaded by the County Probation Department, received the go-ahead following budget deliberations on Wednesday and final approval from the Board of Supervisors on Tuesday. The decision marks a significant step towards improving outreach efforts in challenging terrains.

“These tools will enable our supervision teams to access remote locations like the American River Parkway, where traditional vehicles struggle to reach,” explained Julie Wherry, interim chief probation officer, during the June 3rd board meeting. She emphasized that the drones will be instrumental in identifying encampments hidden from public view.

The use of drones isn’t just about locating individuals; it’s about enhancing the delivery of essential services. According to Wherry, this technology will facilitate the provision of vital resources such as water, food, clothing, and hygiene products to those residing in hard-to-reach areas. Currently, the department employs three mobile outreach vans, two four-wheel-drive trucks, and an all-terrain vehicle to support its outreach efforts. The addition of drones is expected to significantly expand their reach and impact.