PHOENIX, ARIZONA: Volunteers aiming to distribute food to homeless individuals at the 'The Zone' encampment in Phoenix, Arizona, on Thanksgiving Day apparently faced resistance from city authorities, stirring widespread backlash across social media platforms.
According to AZFamily, Liz Luna, a local resident and business owner, described the attempt to aid the homeless as an endeavor met with unexpected challenges.
"It was one of those situations where you’re trying to do something right or trying to provide support, and we’re being harassed for it," expressed Luna after encountering obstructions while attempting to provide support.
Calls for compassion clash with city's 'Healthy Giving' initiative
A TikTok video, unrelated to Luna's group, surfaced, depicting Phoenix police officers and barricades blocking access to 'The Zone'. Luna recounted a similar encounter, stating officers aggressively instructed their group to leave, even trailing them afterward.
The incident has sparked reactions from various quarters. State Rep Alanise Ortiz, in response to Luna's experience, emphasized the need for a compassionate approach to the homeless crisis.
"We cannot lead from an approach of criminalization, either of those people experiencing homelessness, or of those who are just trying to do their part to help," said Rep Ortiz.
In defense of their actions, the city referred to their 'Healthy Giving' initiative, directing donations to nonprofits rather than street contributions.
However, conflicting messages arose as Luna's volunteer group claimed they had received prior approval from local authorities to distribute food.
'The Zone' has been a focal point in a lawsuit against the city, leading to gradual evacuations block by block since May.
A court ruling mandated clearing the area by November 4, spurring intensified cleanup operations, which provoked controversy over the treatment of those dealing with homelessness.
Where is 'The Zone' located?
Situated between Seventh and 15th Avenues and Van Buren and Grant Streets, 'The Zone' houses a fluctuating population of homeless individuals, typically between Washington Street and nearby railway tracks.
Amid the recent shifts, the Human Services Campus remains a central hub offering various support services and accepts year-round donations to assist those affected. The homeless population's count in 'The Zone' has varied but saw a decrease from 800 in the summer to around 500 by mid-September.
The cleanup efforts have drawn criticism from both businesses and individuals residing in the area, expressing skepticism about the effectiveness of such measures.
Homeless individuals' concerns revolve around the absence of clear solutions for relocation and the impact of these actions on their living conditions.
Advocates, such as Central Arizona Shelter Services CEO Lisa Glow, acknowledge ongoing efforts to transition individuals into shelters. However, the availability and suitability of these shelters for different needs remain uncertain.
The fate of 'The Zone' and its homeless residents currently hangs in the balance, showcasing the complex challenges faced by authorities, residents, and advocates in addressing homelessness in Phoenix.
Internet reacts to authorities blocking off homeless encampment on Thanksgiving Day
Soon after the claims of police and Phoenix blocking off access to 'The Zone' surface, netizens took to social media to outrage over the move.
One wrote, "It’s just food! The people are there, hungry. It’s inhumane to stop them from eating free food."
Another said, "Dont even have the "Freedom" to choose to give your own food to the homeless on Thanksgiving . How the US has ever claimed to be "The greatest" or even a 1st world country is just mind boggling . smdh."
A person commented, "Politicians need to make housing affordable and have rent control or more people will become homeless under this horrible government."
"Those generous souls will find alternate routes to give. Not out so publically but maybe without all the visual targets," noted someone else.
One more opined, "Politicians need to make housing affordable and have rent control or more people will become homeless under this horrible government."
"Is there really no humanity in this city of ours anymore what's with the police department I thought there suppose to be sempety," sighed a resident.
