Camp Take Notice residents find shelter elsewhere while organizers seek path to permanent camp
Since the eviction of Camp Take Notice from its last location, officials from First United Methodist Church have noticed more people sleeping on the church's grounds.
Daniel Brenner | AnnArbor.com
While Camp Take Notice organizers search for a new location for a permanent camp, church officials in Ann Arbor have noticed an uptick in people gathering at an unofficial shelter on State Street.
After being evicted from their Scio Township location off Wagner Road between M-14 and Interstate 94 in June, organizers from Michigan Itinerant Shelter System Interdependent Out of Necessity (MISSION) say there are three different locations near Ann Arbor they’re looking at purchasing for a new, permanent Camp Take Notice.
Brian Durrance, a MISSION board member, said the search for a permanent location for the organization is still in its early stages. However, three locations — one inside city borders and two outside Ann Arbor city limits — are being discussed as potential places for a new Camp Take Notice.
“We’re looking at three parcels right now; we don’t know what’s going to come of it,” Durrance said. “We know it’s a complicated thing.”
Approximately 70 people were living at Camp Take Notice when it was forced to close in late June. Of those 70, about 40 people had been given one-year rent subsidies through the Michigan State Housing Development Authority because those 40 people were living at the camp at the time the subsidy program was agreed upon.
Durrance said there are only a few of the original 40 people granted rent subsidies who have yet to be housed. Most of the apartments they moved into are on the eastern side of Ypsilanti near the campus of Eastern Michigan University, according to Durrance.
It was a struggle for many former campers to find housing — many had bad credit, criminal histories and a litany of financial problems.
Camp Take Notice first came on the scene in Ann Arbor in 2007 behind the Malletts Creek branch of the Ann Arbor District Library. After being evicted from that space, the camp moved behind the Meri Lou Murray Recreation Center in County Farm Park, then to a wooded area behind the Arborland shopping center in 2008. In April 2009, the camp was again evicted and it moved to an area behind the Park and Ride lot near Interstate 94 and Ann Arbor Saline Road.
A year later, the camp was forced to move again, this time to the Scio Township location.
While many campers were directed to go to a state-funded temporary shelter at the Delonis Center in downtown Ann Arbor after the camp was disbanded, some people made their way to the city's First United Methodist Church, 120 S. State St.
At the church, the homeless are allowed to sleep underneath a covered entrance way near the parking lot, according to the Rev. Nancy Lynn. She said it’s been a long-standing church policy to allow the homeless to sleep in that spot, but the crowd has grown since Camp Take Notice closed.
Lynn said she and other church officials began developing a closer relationship with Camp Take Notice leaders after the camp was evicted. She said it’s important for the church community in Ann Arbor to understand the needs of the homeless and to find out how they can help.
Camp Take Notice
Here are some stories from AnnArbor.com's coverage of Camp Take Notice
- Ann Arbor's Camp Take Notice put on notice by State Police
- Homeless camp near I-94 settles into neighborhood west of Ann Arbor
- 'It's been a mil winter' for 2 dozen homeless living in tent city near Ann Arbor
- Homeless man found dead at Camp Take Notice
- Eviction looms for Camp Take Notice: 'I doubt we'll meet the deadline
- Camp Take Notice founder waits to be arrested as cleanup efforts wrap up
“We have really just been starting to build a relationship there,” she said. “It’s a part of what happened during the summer, when there was a real increase in people staying here and part of that is because Camp Take Notice closed.”
The group sleeping outside the church is not allowed on the grounds until after 10 p.m., when most of the church’s activities are finished. For the most part, the gathering is peaceful and there are some parameters, Lynn said. However, there aren’t any real rules because of the unofficial nature of the gathering.
There is a sense of community among the regulars, she said, and there are a couple of people that church leaders rely on to keep people under control. She said they’ve really taken ownership of the spot.
“We have a couple people who are regulars that we have gotten to know and they feel some sense of ownership and responsibility,” she said. “We rely on them to help keep things quiet and under control. It’s really not been a problem.”
Durrance said MISSION has been able to keep track of the campers who were unable to find housing and have resorted to going to places like the First United Methodist Church. He said other campers have gone to the Bluffs Nature Area and under the Fuller Road Bridge.
Camp Take Notice is still holding its weekly meetings on Sundays at an organizer’s home and they’re regularly attended, Durrance said. The group continues to talk about other options for a homeless encampment, such as rotating it among participating churches.
He said it’s important for unofficial organizations like Camp Take Notice to continue to exist in order to serve the homeless.
“That’s been the artificial policy of the homeless in Ann Arbor for years,” he said. “We have unofficial programs that help them and Camp Take Notice fell right into that. It wasn’t acknowledged by the other organizations that help the homeless but it served a very important role.”
Kyle Feldscher covers cops and courts for AnnArbor.com. He can be reached at kylefeldscher@annarbor.com or you can follow him on Twitter.
Comments
martini man
Tue, Oct 23, 2012 : 11:49 p.m.
Here is a cry to all you bleeding heart, sanctimonious wealthy liberals.. Which Ann Arbor has an abundance..You know who you are ..Open up your homes, your acreage, and your hearts to these downtrodden victims of a cruel society. Stop playing leftist politics and do the right thing. All you political science professors and champions of left wing social justice, take in these poor wretches and prove your mettle. We regular taxpaying hard working citizens will applaud you for your selfless generosity. But then again ..this may be more about politics than actually helping people in need. Oh well just thought .
Ypsi Skunk
Tue, Oct 23, 2012 : 4:27 a.m.
Two of the folks from CTN, who were provided housing in Ypsi, can be seen daily walking up and down Leforge and east and west on HRD picking up garbage (not just can and bottles, but garbage). Stop and talk to them; they will tell you they are thankful the housing that was provided for them and that picking up the trash is their way of thanking the community. (and they are never panhandling)
martini man
Tue, Oct 23, 2012 : 3:29 a.m.
Maybe Sue Coleman can let them set up camp on some of her property.
Cathy
Tue, Oct 23, 2012 : 3:17 a.m.
Giving support to an addict is enabling the addiction.
swcornell
Tue, Oct 23, 2012 : 3:17 a.m.
Now I just read another article here that said there were 270 some homes in Washtenaw county that the banks have walked away from and the county cannot collect taxes on. Seems like there's an easy solution to both problems. Get these people into the abandoned homes. Let's put Habitat for Humanity out-of-business! It shouldn't take too much thinking outside the box to see this solution!
StopCrying
Tue, Oct 23, 2012 : 2:28 p.m.
I work and pay rent for a condo. I want a house. Give the bums my condo and I will take a free house from the government. Or should I quit and wait to get my free house the "appropriate" way?
brian
Tue, Oct 23, 2012 : 3:07 a.m.
And why can't people live off the land if that is what they want? Oh, Government can't collect any taxes from them. Now I see the light.
Sam S Smith
Tue, Oct 23, 2012 : 4:23 a.m.
It's not about collecting taxes from "them." It's about not creating victims to feel sorry for!
Soulful Adrenaline
Tue, Oct 23, 2012 : 12:33 a.m.
I love how on this thread everyone's true colors bleed through.
Sam S Smith
Tue, Oct 23, 2012 : 12:31 a.m.
"Permanent" camp. What does this mean? That some people prefer to live in a camp rather than subsidized housing? That someone can be a permanent resident there as long as they follow the rules of the camp? What if my mental illness becomes disruptive to others? I'm out? Is there a time limit? Will I still receive disability payments if at camp? Don't I need an address? Is being codependent really compassionate?
Bubba43
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 11:22 p.m.
Why should we have to worry about these people. Let them find jobs & support themselves.
Kai Petainen
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 9:17 p.m.
i thought they were going under the bridge near the UofM hospital?
Sam S Smith
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 9:01 p.m.
We need more info on the Delonis Center and other resources for people to get help. How long is the wait to get help? If the center is full are there other resources for people? There were complaints about how Delonis wakes people up early and they have to be out at 0630 to get breakfast at St. Andrews, that then people have to lug their belongings around all day. Or can they leave their belongings at Delonis and come back to get into helpful programs? What happens after breakfast? Do people go back to Delonis to get help? Or do people just think Delonis Center is just a place to crash for the night? Do the churches work with these people or just give them handouts? Can the churches shelter people inside the church or is there a regulation against this? Do we allow or support a camp for those who do not want help or will not follow rules other than their own? How is a camp that encourages homelessness going to solve homelessness? What are the facts?
earthchick
Tue, Oct 23, 2012 : 12:47 a.m.
There are far more homeless people in Washtenaw County than Delonis or other shelters can accommodate. The churches I know of do work with people to try to help, but the problems are far more complex than most churches are able to address fully (poverty, substance abuse, mental illness, etc.). Churches typically are not staffed for housing people inside overnight. I don't think there is anything wrong with your questions - not sure why it's being voted down. The fact is, the issues involved in homelessness are far more complicated than most commenters here seem to understand. Your questions indicate you are seeking some understanding.
Sam S Smith
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 11:21 p.m.
I was just asking questions--why the negative vote down?
Justavoice
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 7:31 p.m.
Be interested to hear what kind of sanitary facilities might be needed if they were to purchase a piece of property and become a much more established place. My guess is there has to be some sort of sanitary obligations by ordnance in those areas (not to mention noise, loitering, and every other thing that local authority may try to throw at them). Might be interesting to hear what the surrounding cities and townships think about hosing a potential ordinance problem (let alone anything else that COULD come along). I wouldn't want to be these people's neighbors. I'd be on the phone to the local authorities and governance day be if I had this next door to me. I hope they find a spot with plenty of separation from any potential neighbors. Get a clue CTN. Portions of you aren't from here, and a large percentage don't want to hear. There's plenty of places to go in this state. Detroit would welcome you and there plenty of vacant land! You only want to be in Ann Arbor because of the handouts that you graciously talk smack about.
Hunterjim
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 5:33 p.m.
Got the solution....the owners of Jenny's says he's going to sell, so the church can buy that property, set up the new camp. Then hire a plane to fly over Ann Arbor with a banner giving directions to the new location....
Soulful Adrenaline
Tue, Oct 23, 2012 : 12:28 a.m.
lol
harry
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 5:14 p.m.
You know what the answer to homelessness and hunger is? A JOB
Stupid Hick
Tue, Oct 23, 2012 : 1:13 a.m.
"Harry, I certainly hope that you and your family never have a catastrophe in your lives." I hope he does, because then he'll get what he deserves.
Carrie Moore
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 7:08 p.m.
Absolutely!!!!
genetracy
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 5:33 p.m.
Jesse Jackson once said that forcing people into job training programs and then forcing them to find work was akin to involuntary servitude.
justcurious
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 5:24 p.m.
Harry, I certainly hope that you and your family never have a catastrophe in your lives. Never lose insurance, never have a debilitating accident, never have a sudden onset of mental illness that causes you to leave everything and everyone you knew, never go to jail because your lawyer could not prove your innocence. Many of the folks aren't out there because they didn't want to work.
packman
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 5:13 p.m.
Compassion is great if you can find some tax money...
Jack Campbell
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 5:01 p.m.
Is it right for A2 take care of the majority SE MI's vagrant population? How would you feel CTN (70+ people with no sanitation, many mentally ill or with criminal records) set up next to your house (the one you saved years for), your family? We have had a massive influx of homeless into the city because of enablers. Our city is overcrowded with vagrants, our parks overflowing with "campers." I feel for those who are temporarily down on their luck and with legitimate handicaps. But there is a point when helping becomes enabling, and that doesn't help anybody. Most of us work hard to make our lives the way we want. We should be free of addicts following us around asking for money. I should not have to worry about my kid going to the local park because there might be some unregistered sex offender "camping" there. Enough is enough.
Cathy
Tue, Oct 23, 2012 : 3:15 a.m.
It's sad, but I have found that communities that are more tolerant of vagrancy are soon swamped with vagrants and the problems they bring with them. The US clearly has difficult social problems, but a small city like Ann Arbor cannot solve all of them on its own. The solution has to be national.
Bertha Venation
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 5 p.m.
CTN Members can't stay on Methodist Church grounds unless they THTHE. That's why they kicked us out years ago...... It's all about the money.... honey....
Steven Taylor
Tue, Oct 23, 2012 : 3:47 a.m.
Well Bertha all sarcasm aside.. Ain't nothing Free including lodging in a church, cause somebody still gotta keep the lights on.
Bertha Venation
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 5:32 p.m.
sorry. that should be TITHE.
genetracy
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 4:53 p.m.
Compassion is great if someone else has to pay for it.
genetracy
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 4:52 p.m.
I thought homelessness is only an issue when a republican is in the white house.
Radlib2
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 4:44 p.m.
Thank you, Ron and Bill! My blood has been boiling all morning having witnessed the utter lack of compassion displayed in most comments. This is Ann Arbor, we're supposed to be better than this!
Goober
Tue, Oct 23, 2012 : 7:13 a.m.
And we wonder why some don't like Ann Arbor! Go figure!
Sam S Smith
Tue, Oct 23, 2012 : 4:12 a.m.
Better than what? Push comes to shove, you're no different than anyone else!
harry
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 5:15 p.m.
Actually its the opposite. This ann arbor, what do you expect.
Ron Granger
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 4:22 p.m.
@Carrie Moore: "This makes my blood boil every time I read about camp take notice. They should be more concerned about helping these people become productive members of society, not making sure they have a place to sit around all day and night for free!!" -- So you feel rage when you read about other people trying to help the less fortunate? Is that what I read? What is it about people who are trying to get back to work and need shelter that makes you so angry? Or is it just the people who cannot work who need shelter? A 2009 Harvard study reported that 62 percent of all personal bankruptcies are caused by medical problems. Often those are medical problems that are not resolved. Does that make you angry at the people with the illness, who have lost not only their health but everything else? Do you think everyone in that group is a drug abuser? What do you propose we do with those sick people? Is judging them enough, or should we do more?
Sam S Smith
Tue, Oct 23, 2012 : 3:59 a.m.
Also Mr. Granger, what do you mean by : "What do you propose we do with those sick people?" Sick people? Sick meaning what? If these people are "sick" I would think the last place "sick" people should be is in a camp, in a tent and with no water or toilets!
Sam S Smith
Tue, Oct 23, 2012 : 12:11 a.m.
Also Mr. Granger, mental illness is treatable. No one is advocating those who have mental illness to "go to the left." Encouraging people to get help for themselves is the biggest help of all. I know this personally. Or would you feel better if I'm in a camp that doesn't help me, tucked away nicely and out of sight and call it my residence?
Sam S Smith
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 11:43 p.m.
Wouldn't a camp be a form of segregation? Yup, let's keep them all (whoever that might be, including myself possibly some day) in one little camp. Make it real easy to feel good about oneself for doing this. No mental or emotional help, no job help, no addiction treatment, no nothing except the status quo... this is what sounds so clean and efficient. Keeping the status quo. And what labor camps are you referring to?
Sam S Smith
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 11:27 p.m.
So what is/are your suggestion(s) to truly help these people Mr. Granger? What would a camp accomplish long term?
Ron Granger
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 9:39 p.m.
"With a more capable leader most of the camp could potentially be motivated to work, or even molded into a self-supporting, prideful work force. Line them up, find out who needs what kind of help, and act accordingly. Mental health to the left, people who are willing to make the sacrifices that they need to and are willing and able to work to the right." That's the spirit! After they are segregated, they could be marked to desginate them. And then we simply send them to the labor camps. It all sounds so clean and efficient.
Rob
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 8:12 p.m.
Of all the people I met at the now famous CTN, only a few had legitimate problems that may not be hire-ready. Legitimate does not include debt or booze. Even if that number was 10 people with true mental health needs, the task does not involve enabling people to live for free indefinitely. Asking for a free place to live instead of begging for a job is the first indication. With a more capable leader most of the camp could potentially be motivated to work, or even molded into a self-supporting, prideful work force. Line them up, find out who needs what kind of help, and act accordingly. Mental health to the left, people who are willing to make the sacrifices that they need to and are willing and able to work to the right.
Carrie Moore
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 7:07 p.m.
Ron- I am angry that lazy people are trying to get a free ride. Do I feel bad that people have lost their jobs in these poor economic time...of course. My father just recently lost his job I understand about hard times. The problem is from reading these articles and my boyfriend actually going an talking to the people in CTN, the attitude I am seeing is they don't want jobs or help with their "illnesses". I believe in charity work and helping those less fortunate, but that is not what they are doing. They are enabling them. As far as people having mental illnesses, yes we should help them. But is helping them putting them in a unsanitary un- managed camp grounds?
golfer
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 5:40 p.m.
what do you think they do with the money they get from the hwy exits. spend it on med? no they spend it on other stuff. even people with medical illness who have insurance are not covered. so tell me what more can we do. take the bottle returns and chips they get from begging away from them.
harry
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 5:21 p.m.
It took my son 2 weeks to find a job making $7.40 per hours (yes 40 hrs if he wants it.) That $266 per week take home or $1,154 per month. Just think if two of them leased an apt together. Ypsi has apartments russell anderson $575 two bedroom. http://www.forrent.com/apartment-community-profile/1033288.php This is the path they should be leading them on.
justcurious
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 5:20 p.m.
Great post Ron. Some people just don't "get" it, and don't want to get it either. They think everyone's lives roll along just like theirs. Everyone else is a deadbeat. Nice example of tunnel vision.
packman
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 4:05 p.m.
The Eagles said it better than I can say it...... I turn on the tube and what do I see A whole lotta people cryin' "Don't blame me" They point their crooked little fingers at everybody else Spend all their time feelin' sorry for themselves Victim of this, victim of that Your momma's too thin; your daddy's too fat Get over it Get over it All this whinin' and cryin' and pitchin' a fit Get over it, get over it You say you haven't been the same since you had your little crash But you might feel better if they gave you some cash The more I think about it, Old Billy was right Let's kill all the lawyers, kill 'em tonight You don't want to work; you want to live like a king But the big, bad world doesn't owe you a thing Get over it Get over it If you don't want to play, then you might as well split Get over it, get over it It's like going to confession every time I hear you speak You're makin' the most of your losin' streak Some call it sick, but I call it weak You drag it around like a ball and chain You wallow in the guilt; you wallow in the pain You wave it like a flag, you wear it like a crown Got your mind in the gutter, bringin' everybody down Complain about the present and blame it on the past I'd like to find your inner child and kick its little *** Get over it Get over it All this *****in' and moanin' and pitchin' a fit Get over it, get over it Get over it Get over it It's gotta stop sometime, so why don't you quit Get over it, get over it Get over it
Bill
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 3:25 p.m.
Many of the comments on this article are disappointing and show a side of Ann Arbor that is not one for which we should be proud. It appears there a group within Ann Arbor totally without caring or compassion for other human beings. Some of you apparently don't realize there are people in the USA and even in your beloved Ann Arbor who may not be able to save the money to cover 5 to 6 months worth of expenses in case of job loss. And people do make mistakes in their lives and yes in some cases, these are self inflected while in other cases, they may be the result of others. The Methodist Church is helping by allowing these individuals to have a place to be with at least some shelter. Unfortunately, it appears that the only way to make many of you happy is to ship the homeless out of Ann Arbor so you don't have to look at them and think about the fact that we have a homeless problem in our country and within our own community. For those of you who do care and have compassion for these individuals, why not send a check to the Methodist Church designated to provide for these homeless. I'm sure the church would appreciate any money given that could be used to provide things like blankets, clothes, food, etc. Thanks to AnnArbor.com for keeping us informed.
Steven Taylor
Tue, Oct 23, 2012 : 3:43 a.m.
Well, Bill, I commend you on your compassion. There is one serious flaw though to this WHOLE argument. While it's 'fine' for now that they're essentially squatting out of sight/out of mind at the Methodist church and the overhang but not during 'business' hours. I'd love for you to see it from the mindset of a public safety issue. Most everyone knows to avoid Liberty Plaza due to the vagrancy that occurs there.. What about the public safety issues for the tax payers near CTN's last location off of Wagner Road. Some of these individuals are no doubt dangers.. I agree with many here that it's a mental health catastrophy waiting to happen, but as previous articles have stated. These guys just keep moving around once they wear out their welcome. I for one am not to happy that the housing folks decided to truck some dregs from A2 to my neck of the woods in Ypsi.. How many of those will now become a problem for us over here?
Steve
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 5:23 p.m.
Here is the bottom line, everyone wants to help others. They want to help others learn, be healthy and be active contributors to our whole society(not just a small outlet portion that wants to live off the grid). The members of this group, and other similar groups, have become so organized it's confusing as to why additional help or land is needed. They have enough time to create a nice website, they have time to constantly push back on MDOT to allow them to stay, they have time to do interviews with media outlets and they have time to "developed documents that lay out communal expectations, regulations, and governing structures. Interdependence and self-governance" (from their website). If the members of the group can show that they've graduated out of this Camp Notice and into society and pay taxes, etc. then I'm sure more people will be willing to assist. I don't see that, the media isn't covering that. Why are there members of this group for such a long time? How much time is needed get up and get going? Shouldn't we be seeing a 3-4 month turn over over of people staying at this camp? It seems every interview is with the same people year in and year out. This is why no one wants to help any more, at this point it just seems nothing is getting accomplished, we are just allowing people to live locally and use society provided services free, while others pay for those services.
TR
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 3:38 p.m.
Thank you, Bill. There is a need for more people like us!! This church offers a great resource and a safeplace to allow people to sleep at night.
simone66
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 3:25 p.m.
I'm curious to know if of all these CTN people, do any of them have relative or friends they can stay with? Any decent person must have a familial safety net to prevent being homeless or living in a camp. If I ever hit hard times, I have several places to stay without a moment's notice. Why do these people not have this option? The homeless should be housed in safe housing, not in wooded areas in and around Ann Arbor, this isn't colonial times, it's 2012!
TR
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 3:37 p.m.
You are not mentally ill and your addiction has not weighed your family down with last resort options for years and years. Read about addiction and mental illness and you find understanding!!
Carrie Moore
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 2:46 p.m.
This makes my blood boil every time I read about camp take notice. They should be more concerned about helping these people become productive members of society, not making sure they have a place to sit around all day and night for free!! It makes absolutely no sense to me. They are completely enabling them not helping them. As an Ann Arbor tax payer I will put up a huge fight for any piece of Ann Arbor property they think they are going to set up their next camp.
Rob
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 7:53 p.m.
Yes, too much thought in the wrong direction. Figure out the root of the problem before you try to solve it all at once. So far we have: mental health(nobody in the camp I met was physically disabled, at least by the standard of being able to ride a bike or walk >1 mile), drug and alcohol abuse, limited employment opportunities, and possibly motivation/ambition(surely I will be flamed for this comment). Although the Delonis Center is limited on space, at least they have a standard of requiring residents to leave substance abuse behind. They will also help find people jobs or get help from the government for those with mental and physical health issues. This is the right direction. Give a man a fish, and he will eat for a day. Teach a man to fish and.... Well, I don't even have to finish.
WalkingJoe
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 3:24 p.m.
Best idea I've seen on this page. Thanks Carrie.
Jack Campbell
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 2:28 p.m.
Why would they want to purchase land in one of the most expensive areas of SE mi? Oh yeah, so they can continue to leach more off A2.
Real Life
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 1:45 p.m.
There are still thousands of abandoned homes in the city of Detroit. A little eminent domain and some hard work and the homeless can have a home.
Bubba43
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 11:30 p.m.
YEAH send them to DETROIT.
Basic Bob
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 3:02 p.m.
Subsistence farming is not just for sharecroppers anymore.
not a billy
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 2:54 p.m.
Fantastic idea. Unfortunately, it will probably have to be someone who is working for a living that will have to do the physical work. I say load CTN on an AATA bus or two, take them to Detroit and get started. Give them some tools, let them fend for themselves.
StopCrying
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 2:07 p.m.
...and if you squat long enough it becomes really difficult to evict them! The new squat to own program could help hundreds find a warm spot for the winter.
genetracy
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 1:34 p.m.
How far is the church from Liberty Square? Does the church offer a shuttle?
genetracy
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 6:57 p.m.
2-3 blocks is pretty far to walk. I hope they do have a shuttle.
jen777
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 5:53 p.m.
it is 2-3 blocks to liberty square
genetracy
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 1:31 p.m.
Are the CTN folks invited to attend church services on Sunday ot do they have to clear out for the day?
genetracy
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 6:58 p.m.
Well US, let's hear it from a member of the congregation.
Unusual Suspect
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 1:44 p.m.
I guess you don't know how churches work. They don't require invitations.
CobraII
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 1:25 p.m.
CTN could move to the new underground parking by the library, that way they could have a warm place to sit during the day.
StopCrying
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 1:19 p.m.
Can we please offer up a free mental examination for these 70 or so homeless, find the ones with serious issues and get them help. Leave the rest to fend for themselves and never see another article about them. Please and thank you.
golfer
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 1:19 p.m.
of the three i say out side of the city limits.
Ron Granger
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 1:17 p.m.
How dare anyone try to help these people and provide a place for them to survive the winter! "Love thy neighbor" does not apply to non-property owners - the Bible says so! I am outraged that these people are getting a hand-out, while I am not! Etc.
earthchick
Tue, Oct 23, 2012 : 12:49 a.m.
TR - the rotating shelter in the churches only happens a few months during the year (when it's cold), and only a very few people can be accommodated. The shelter system in Washtenaw County cannot currently serve all the homeless people in this county.
TR
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 3:35 p.m.
There is a place, rotating churched get the homeless off the street and the Delonis Center houses a warming center in the colder months.
xmo
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 1:13 p.m.
What Compassion! "At the church, the homeless are allowed to sleep underneath a covered entrance way near the parking lot, according to the Rev. Nancy Lynn."
genetracy
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 2:29 p.m.
Bud, since when it is a business' responsibility to house the homeless?
DJBudSonic
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 1:55 p.m.
I am going to guess that this is more than either of you are doing, and is more than they need to do. FUMC has been helping the homeless in many ways for many years, along with the neighboring church. Just letting them overnight on the property is more than most businesses or the city will do.
Unusual Suspect
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 1:43 p.m.
Especially where there's a room right inside that door that could house all of them.
Jill DeYoe
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 12:58 p.m.
Many cities have legal homesteading areas.
not a billy
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 12:52 p.m.
Glad to see that most of the forty people that were granted rent subsidies have found shelter in apartments IN YPSILANTI. Once again, the Ann Arbor elite have found a way to rid themselves of the undesireables and send them to Ypsi. Out of sight, out of mind, and dumped on Ypsi. Additionally, it really grinds me that these "homeless" individuals have a sense of entitlement and think that they have been wronged. It's time we stopped feeling sorry for people who have self-destructed.
TR
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 3:33 p.m.
I did not realize that mental illness and addiction were self destructing entitled people who are entitled to a luxurious life of homelssness. Hmmm, last time I knew these things were uncontrollable.
Basic Bob
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 3 p.m.
There are still plenty of folks in Ann Arbor feeling entitled.
Ron Granger
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 1:13 p.m.
"Additionally, it really grinds me that these "homeless" individuals have a sense of entitlement and think that they have been wronged." Oh - it sounds like you have spoken to all of them - every last one - and confirmed that they are uniform in their views and life story. What an amazing monoculture you have discovered! I await your book on the subject, because you have clearly done a lot of thorough research.
justcurious
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 12:49 p.m.
Very good article Kyle. Thank you. I always feel "there but for the grace of God, go I."
HONDO
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 12:37 p.m.
Arent state campgrounds set up for campers? Who is going to pay for these parcels, I hope not the employeed tax payers? Why do they get an easy gig cause they dont want to make an effort and be like the rest of society? So should I give up my job, house, two cars and toys.... So I can be taken care of by others? Oh wait it takes hard work and self discipline to get ahead in the world. Lets load them all on a bus and drop them off in the D-toilet and show em what real poverty is like? Or just dump them in another state!!
TR
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 3:30 p.m.
The burden will not fall back on the tax payers. The MISSION is a non-profit group who is helping thiisspecific population. Read the previous articles and this article and do research on what exactly MISSION is. These folks are not dumping themselves anywhere. Did you ever stop to think about what it is they are doing and that is their passion. It is not everyday you find a person who wants to live this life, but this is their choice, allow them to live in peace.
not a billy
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 1:02 p.m.
Again, the burden will fall back on the people who are working hard to keep what they have. It is a sad state of affairs that the less you do and the farther you dig yourself into a hole, the more you are entitled to. I've been working for nearly fifty years (usually 2 or 3 jobs), never been unemployed, never gotten a government subsidy. And it's because I have had the ambition to do so. People need to get off their butts or be forced to do something to get the handouts. Whatever happened to "nobody rides for free"???
WalkingJoe
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 12:32 p.m.
Funny how after yesterdays article about the guy complaining about banner towing airplanes on football Saturdays someone commented that there hadn't been any stories about Camp Take Notice for awhile. And now, gee, here is one. Coincidence?
EyeHeartA2
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 5:07 p.m.
....I think not.
EyeHeartA2
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 12:27 p.m.
So....nothing on Jenny's or the Huron/Pioneer brawl yet today? Well, day ain't over yet, I guess.
Unusual Suspect
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 3:50 p.m.
We need a graffiti article, too!
Unusual Suspect
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 12:09 p.m.
It seems this would require some sort of zoning change, regardless of where the end up flopping. Especially the location that's within the city limits. Of course, the legality of this camp has never been a concern, so why start now? I wouldn't be surprised if one of their strategies would be to get the location within Ann Arbor, knowing that Ann Arbor would be much less likely to evict them for zoning violations than MDOT was.
Simon Green
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 12:07 p.m.
Maybe they should change their name to Camp Take a Hike...
djm12652
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 8:44 p.m.
@Enso...I have not spoken to these people other than to tell them to stop pissing in front of me or to tell them to get the hell out of my hallway where they were passed out...other than that I have ignored the vile remarks made...
Enso
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 4:44 p.m.
Well, it's good you've talked to all these people to figure that out. Most people don't have that option and just judge for no reason whatsoever. I'm glad you aren't one of those. But my further point, I fear, was lost on you. What I was getting at is that you advocate that all these people should "just get a job." But when someone like you wouldn't even hire them, when you yourself think they should be working, what does that say about their situation? But then again I understand. You've spoken to all 70 of these homeless individuals and know that they are all 'dead beats." So you're right, maybe we should put them jail? In some kind of work camp perhaps? Should we institutionalize them somehow? Maybe they don't deserve to live? I don't know. What should we do? The problem isn't going away. It's easy to sit back anonymously on your computer and make grand pronouncements about other people's lives, it's a bit more difficult to be constructive. So be constructive or quit complaining.
cinnabar7071
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 4:04 p.m.
Enso if I had a business I wouldn't hire these dead beats. I would hire motivated people who would work hard at getting ahead. I know that some people end up homeless by no fault of their own, these are not these people.
Enso
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 3:13 p.m.
@cinn Start a business and hiring them. Then you won't have to complain.
cinnabar7071
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 12:55 p.m.
Or Camp Get A Job!
Goober
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 12:01 p.m.
Washignton DC would be an excellent location for the new CTN.
Itchy
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 5:34 p.m.
If they move to DC, they might even get a grant if they mention battery or solar cell. :)
Mark
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 11:59 a.m.
"It was a struggle for many former campers to find housing — many had bad credit, criminal histories and a litany of financial problems." You forgot mental illnesses, substance abuse and addictions. Let's be honest, here. It's sad when people are homeless, but the problems are bigger than bad credit, and "finding housing" doesn't necessarily fix the problems.
Davidian
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 6:42 p.m.
From day one the arguments supporting CTN have been disingenuous.
countrycat
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 11:58 a.m.
How about a permanent location somewhere where you don't have cold winters? Michigan seems a strange place to want to live outdoors year-round.
Craig Lounsbury
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 12:38 p.m.
tell that to the Eskimos.
actionjackson
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 11:52 a.m.
Durrance said there are only a few of the original 40 people granted rent subsidies who have yet to be housed. Most of the apartments they moved into are on the eastern side of Ypsilanti near the campus of Eastern Michigan University, according to Durrance. Wouldn't want to lose that "Ann Arbor" address!
motorcycleminer
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 11:23 a.m.
Lets see the talking heads here @ OZ want to spend $ 500.000.00 to play Thomas the train....instead of dealing deal with the homeless problem they have created ...gotta love their priorities....
arborarmy
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 4:54 p.m.
Some people who no doubt fancy themselves to be good Christians" need to read Matthew 25:35-40, Proverbs 19:17, Proverbs 14:31, and 1 John 3:17-18, among many, many others.
a2roots
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 1:23 p.m.
@clownfish...The news coverage of this situation has been quite extensive over a period of time. All reports are consistent in reporting the "individual issues." Being laid off is not necessarily ones own fault although it certainly can be. Multitudes of people have been laid off and re-entered the job force without placing blame or looking to someone else's wallet to solve their problem. Again, it is time for people to look into the mirror and hold ones self accountable.
Steve
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 1:18 p.m.
Clownfish, getting laid off isn't ones own fault. Not saving enough money so that if you do get laid off you have 5-6 months worth of expenses covered is. Yes, this is a difficult process for most people, and can take 2-3 years or more to save up that amount. But guess what, people do it all the time. I feel bad for these folks, and I'll be more than willing to assist is getting them temporary housing for 1-2 months while they find suitable employment. I will not though assist in finding them a permanent camp site to live out there days tax and work free. If a permanent camping area is wanted, then by all means go buy 10 acres in Chelsea or Jackson or another area that is more affordable for that much land and is surrounded by wooded areas. Taxes in these areas are much lower than in Ann Arbor and 70 people can easily all chip in to cover those taxes.
clownfish
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 12:21 p.m.
a2roots, how do you know the individual issues? Have you spoken to all 70 people? Is getting laid off ones own fault?
a2roots
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 12:19 p.m.
Always easy to blame someone else. The problems the homeless have such as "bad credit, criminal histories and other financial issues" are self made. Time to look in the mirror and hold yourself accountable and not others. Mental health issues are a totally different ballgame and are probably much less prevalent among this group than the others listed.
4 Fingers
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 11:52 a.m.
You mean the train to Oz so more homeless can cruise in.
clownfish
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 11:42 a.m.
Private charities will pick up the slack, we have been instructed that the govt has no place caring for the homeless.
meddler76
Mon, Oct 22, 2012 : 11:21 a.m.
Here we go!