Our church made a visit to Tent City in Lakewood, New Jersey and it was a real eye opener. I am not sure what I expected, a mish mash of individuals living in generally the same area perhaps? Each person going their own way and doing their own thing? Instead, what I found was a full blown community of people trying to make the best of a very rough situation. I met skilled laborers, veterans, mothers, and former professionals; all with one thing in common…things got bad….things got worse…and now they have nowhere to go.
The group of about 70 residents is made up of all walks of life who have fallen on hard times and are unable to get out. There are people here who are willing and able to work, and when asked what we could bring down to help, the most common request was jobs. Those that are working are just not making enough per hour to support an apartment and utilities. The result, a group of people that are trapped in a tough cycle and living the best way they can.
They have organized, with the help of Steven Brigham, a community complete with a church and organized list of jobs that need to be done. They chop wood for fuel and erect plywood buildings to try to beat the winter’s blast. They use donated food and clothing as well as household items to create home for themselves and work together to form a community.
The group is currently facing many legal battles, but with the help of Jeff Wild, an attorney working pro-bono for the community, the group is able to stay on the property for the time being. Now, many would understand not wanting a “Tent City” in your neighborhood, but the reality of the situation is that these people have no place to go. Until there is a better solution, we have to use whatever resources we can find to help our neighbors get through. If you are interested in helping out, please visit the Lakewood Tent City website for information on needs and ways to help.