### CEDHBC to Support Strategies for Homeless Care in Mexicali
Mexicali – The State Human Rights Commission of Baja California (CEDHBC) has announced its involvement in supporting strategies aimed at assisting homeless individuals in Mexicali. This initiative results from a meeting held at the Commission’s offices, which brought together Baja California ombudsperson Jorge Álvaro Ochoa Orduño, representatives of civil society organizations from Mexicali, Tijuana, and Ensenada, local business owners, State Congresswoman Gloria Miramontes, local authorities, and the Baja California Institute of Psychiatry.
CEDHBC President Jorge Álvaro Ochoa Orduño acknowledged the collective interest in addressing the needs of this vulnerable group. He emphasized that all interventions must honor the dignity and autonomy of the individuals involved, while also ensuring their access to healthcare and community integration.
During the meeting, Ochoa referenced Recommendation 5/2022, highlighting past instances where homeless individuals were forcibly taken to addiction treatment centers, some even outside the state. He pointed out that structural issues and a long-standing lack of sufficient public policies for mental health and addiction treatment have necessitated this collaborative approach. The involvement of municipal, state, and civil society organizations alongside the Commission signifies a shift towards a human rights-focused care model.
Ochoa and Congresswoman Miramontes also committed to initiating similar strategies in Tijuana, Tecate, and Ensenada after the Mexicali efforts begin. Participants agreed to develop a unified agenda and plan for interventions in Mexicali’s historic center.
“The CEDHBC offices in all Baja California municipalities will remain open, not only for citizens needing to file complaints or seek guidance but also for authorities and the public striving to solve issues primarily concerning vulnerable groups,” concluded Ochoa.
### Additional Coverage on Homeless Care Initiatives
**Homelessness in Baja California: A Broader Perspective**
Beyond the recent CEDHBC initiative in Mexicali, Baja California faces wider challenges in addressing homelessness across the state. Authorities and local organizations have been increasing efforts to provide support and sustainable solutions to this pressing issue.
In Tijuana, local authorities have focused on establishing more hydration points to prevent health crises among homeless people during extreme weather. Similar initiatives are being discussed in other cities within the state.
Furthermore, there has been growing scrutiny over the treatment of elderly individuals abandoned by their families and sent to care homes. This issue, while separate, underscores the broader need for comprehensive care strategies for all vulnerable populations in Baja California.
Meanwhile, civic groups continue to push for better coordination between municipal authorities and human rights organizations to ensure that interventions align with human rights standards, offering both immediate relief and long-term solutions to those in need. As Baja California moves forward with these efforts, the collaborative approach seen in Mexicali may serve as a model for other regions in tackling homelessness and related social issues.