GREENSBORO, N.C. (WGHP) -- Homeless encampments are becoming a more common sight in Greensboro with tents and makeshift shelters popping up across the city. While residents and city officials share concerns about the issue, the approach to addressing it is a delicate balance of empathy and enforcement. “Nobody wants to arrest somebody,” Greensboro Strategic and Crisis Communications Manager Eric Chilton said. “The idea is to get them to a place where they can get some help." To aid in this effort, the city has implemented a new tool: a constantly updated flyer. Distributed by Greensboro police and downtown ambassadors, the flyer provides information about shelters, public restrooms and warming centers. “New places are coming online soon to give people a place to stay,” Chilton said. “White Flag warming centers will also play a big role as we head into January, the coldest month of the year. It’s a never-ending process to find more housing, but there are big things in the works.” If outreach efforts fail, the city may escalate to enforcement. This can include asking individuals to move or involving police if necessary. If residents are absent during enforcement, their belongings are tagged and stored, allowing them to reclaim their items later.  “Helping them to get back on track is the idea here,” Chilton said. “You can help someone over and over, but if it keeps happening, there has to be a better step. Right now, education and outreach seem to be working. If we do have to confiscate their belongings, they can come back and claim them.” For residents, helping directly may feel like the right thing to do, but Chilton encourages another approach. “If you see someone, you might develop a relationship with them, and that’s a good thing,” Chilton said. “But you’re putting a Band-Aid on a bigger problem. It’s great to help someone out. But long-term, is that addressing what they really need?” City officials stress that community involvement is key to solving the encampment issue. They urge residents to report encampments by contacting the city directly rather than dialing 911.