KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – Due to escalating violence, hygiene issues and other problems, the City of Kalamazoo announced Wednesday that it will be closing the Ampersee Avenue homeless encampment just before the end of September.
Residents living at the encampment will have until Wednesday, September 29 at 5 p.m. to vacate the area or risk possible prosecution.
Kalamazoo Continuum of Care (COC) Director Sara Jacobs issued the following statement to news outlets regarding the decision –
“While we recognize the complex systemic and personal factors that result in encampments, the current situation at the Ampersee encampment present significant risk to the health, safety, and well-being of those living at the encampment, those providing onsite services and supports, and those living and working nearby,” Jacobs said.
In order to help those who are still living at the encampment, COC will partner with two other organizations, such as Integrated Systems of Kalamazoo, to provide support services and find shelter opportunities.
Representatives with those organizations have already been visiting the area each day to try to connect residents with services.
Following the closure date, the city will conduct a cleanup of the area with assistance from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE).
That cleanup will also include areas along the Kalamazoo River.
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