Unhoused — A Temporary Condition

Last week, the United States Supreme Court heard arguments in the case of Grants Pass, Oregon v. Johnson. The plaintiffs challenged the constitutionality of criminal penalties, such as fines, for camping on public property. The central issue was whether being “unhoused” or simply not having access to shelter is covered under the Eighth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which protects against “cruel and unusual punishment.” Apparently, the SCOTUS was divided, judging from their questions, but there won’t be a decision for months. I witnessed a forced “decamping” myself here along North Dixie Highway in West Palm Beach in an area called Currie Park. Tents were removed from the development site of a planned luxury high-rise. Fencing was then put in place to block access to the unhoused. Now, with the construction underway, a few stragglers have come back to pitch their humble enclosures along the walkway outside of the work site, using the fence for support. I drive by Currie Park regularly on my way to West Palm from Palm Beach Island and have watched the encroachment of high-rise development, wondering where the displaced unhoused have gone. Now, I believe I have found the answer.

Last week, I had the opportunity to visit the campus of a local charitable organization called The Lord’s Place for a tour with one of its many volunteers, my friend M.K. The Lord’s Place provides shelter to the unhoused, but its mission is broader: to help restore basic human dignity to those in need. Using a holistic, compassionate model to provide relief and assistance, they are making a real difference. The uplifting, welcoming energy is evident immediately upon entering the facility, and the stigma of homelessness is washed away. A large, cheerful sign in the vestibule announces, “Lunch is served!” Regular hot meals are available for anyone who enters, whether they find their way there by foot, bus, or by the car in which they spent the night. Those seeking help are met by friendly volunteers who engage them in a process which can include counseling, securing temporary shelter, medical attention, assistance in getting a social security card, as well as job training and placement. The goal is to give those who want it a path to a better life.

The Lord’s Place receives federal funding for half of its operating expenses, the other half of which is dependent on donors. With an impressive budget of $18 million, they are able to provide services to over 1,800 people. Despite the religious name, The Lord’s Place is a non-sectarian 501c that looks to service anyone in need both through “inreach” and “outreach,” and their programs have a verified track record of success, which enables them to continue to receive federal support.

Part of the funding is allocated to other, smaller Lord’s Place facilities around the county that collectively house up to 400 people. The residents stay until they are able to provide for themselves, which for most is within 12-18 months. For those unable to access a facility, a Lord’s Place food truck travels throughout the county, providing free meals to the hungry. When I visited, I saw a mother with four young children, a parent with a grown child, and an elderly gentleman—a small cross-section of humanity. The Lord’s Place has improved countless lives, including, I hope, the banned campers from Currie Park.