Providence church responds to backlash allowing homeless to pitch tents on property
PROVIDENCE, R.I. — After a homeless encampment moved to the property of St. Edward's Church in Providence, the pastor is responding to criticism in a letter posted to the parish website.
"As members of the Church of Jesus Christ, it is our mission as stated many times by the Pope that we must help our brothers and sisters, especially those who are destitute and are in serious need of help," Father Ed wrote. "While we did not create this situation, it is our obligation as a Church to help, therefore I allowed several persons to temporarily move onto our property."
The encampment opened on church property after the city of Providence issued eviction notices to people living in two different homeless encampments.
He said the church tried to find alternative locations and shelter beds for those in need, but none were available.
The letter states that about seven families are currently living in the area and no more will be added.
In addition to a fence for privacy, the church has provided them with a dumpster, port-a-potty and electricity.
They are working with other organizations to provide everyone with food and case management services.
According to the letter, everyone living in the encampment has agreed to move to shelter beds when they become available.
"I do want to emphasize that this is a temporary/emergency situation," the letter states.
Neighbors have criticized the set up expressing concerns about safety and permitting.
According to the city of Providence, because the new temporary fence installed surrounding the encampment is less than 6 feet tall, and is not located on a main road, it didn't require a permit.