City of Charleston to Provide Transitional Housing to Residents of Tent City
The City of Charleston and homeless service providers have been working diligently for the past 60 days to assist individuals in tent city with alternative housing options, as the population of tent city has shrunk from 115 individuals to 43 as of March 28, 2016. The city has now arranged to provide transitional housing for all remaining residents of tent city, as more permanent housing solutions are sought.
Flyers about the move are being disseminated to residents of tent city today.
The process of moving residents of tent city to the new facility will begin on Monday, April 4, 2016 and will occur in phases over a five day period, based on groupings of tents in tent city. Transportation will be provided by the city and its partners. Those who do not want to move to transitional housing must make other living arrangements. After the move, no one will be allowed to remain on SCDOT property.
The city has entered into an agreement with Charleston County to use the existing Work Camp facility on Leeds Avenue as a temporary transitional housing center. The center is a short walk to CARTA bus stops, and bus passes will be provided to transitional housing residents. During their time in transitional housing, residents will receive three meals a day and have access to basic facilities, including showers, laundry facilities and restrooms. Beds and personal care items will be provided.
Services at the center will be offered by existing service providers and will include help identifying permanent housing, referrals for employment, non-criminal legal services and relocation and reunification services for those wishing to return to family or friends located in another city.
