As North Park Homeless Encampment Cleared, Residents Say They Have Nowhere To Go

City workers dismantled a homeless encampment at Legion Park in North Park on September 9, 2025, displacing residents and prompting emotional reactions. Many residents, such as Ronaldo Gonzalez, expressed feelings of hopelessness after being forced to leave their makeshift homes, which they had occupied for over a year. Protesters from Parks for All criticized the city for failing to provide long-term solutions, asserting that these sweeps merely perpetuate a cycle of homelessness. The Department of Family and Support Services announced outreach workers would help connect residents with shelter options, yet only five individuals have accepted placements since early August. Gonzalez cited past negative experiences in shelters as a reason for his refusal, highlighting ongoing challenges faced by the homeless community.

The situation reflects a troubling pattern of encampment closures across the city, with similar actions taken in other neighborhoods over the past year. Local residents have reported feeling unsafe due to the presence of encampments, creating tension between community members and those experiencing homelessness. As the city grapples with these issues, the need for effective solutions remains pressing.