"Lewis’s proposal is worth a try" 
- Akron Beacon Journal Editorial Board

Because Everyone Deserves Shelter, Especially in Winter

The unsheltered homeless population in Summit County has risen by 300% since 2022, creating an urgent need for compassionate and innovative solutions. Shelters are at capacity, leaving many people without safe options. We propose a privately funded, temporary Safe Sleeping Camp to operate from December through April to provide basic shelter, safety, and dignity to Akron’s unsheltered homeless residents.

This initiative follows federal guidelines for emergency shelter programs and includes strict rules to ensure the camp is safe, clean, and effective. By signing this petition, you join us in urging Akron city leaders to approve this humane, cost-effective solution, designed as a collaboration between the city, Akron residents, and the homeless population.

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The unsheltered homeless population in Summit County is now 300% higher than it was in 2022, climbing from a low that year of 53 people to now more than 200.

Mar-quetta Boddie, the executive director of the Continuum of Care, which leads the annual count of the homeless population in the county, expects that number to continue to climb.

The problem has grown so quickly that Boddie, who was once opposed to tents as an acceptable form of shelter, is now in support of exploring alternatives to traditional housing as shelters across the county are at or near max capacity.

- From the Akron Beacon Journal editorial board

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A Collaborative Vision

We believe this program must reflect the needs and values of everyone in Akron. This proposal is not set in stone—your input matters. If the city or residents of Akron propose changes to improve the program, we are committed to listening, adapting, and working together to create a system that works for the entire community.

This camp is not just about providing shelter; it’s about building trust and finding common ground between Akron’s housed and unhoused populations. Together, we can create a safe, respectful space that addresses the needs of all stakeholders.

The Safe Sleeping Camp Plan

•  Location: A secluded area approved by the city, ensuring minimal disruption to surrounding neighborhoods.
• Duration: December 2024 through April 2025 (winter months only).
• Facilities Provided:
  • Portable toilets and trash collection to maintain cleanliness.
  • Sleeping tents set up in an organized, monitored environment.
  • Resources and services to connect residents to long-term housing and support.
• Funding:
  • This program is entirely privately funded by advocates and community supporters, requiring no taxpayer dollars.
• Rules:
  • No public drug use will be permitted in community spaces.
  • Cleanliness standards will be enforced, and trash will be regularly removed.
  • No children will be allowed to stay at the camp for safety reasons.
  • Police or private security will monitor the area to ensure safety for all participants.

Why This Program Matters

•  Compassion Without Burdening Taxpayers: This camp will provide a safe place to sleep without drawing on city funds.
  
  
• Community Collaboration: This is not a top-down decision but a shared effort among city officials, residents, and homeless advocates to create a workable, respectful solution.
  
  
• Proactive Connection to Services: The camp will work with local organizations to connect residents to resources like mental health care, addiction recovery, and permanent housing opportunities.
  
  
• A Temporary Solution for a Growing Problem: While long-term solutions like affordable housing are pursued, this program addresses an immediate need during Akron’s harsh winters.

Sign the Petition

By signing this petition, you affirm your support for this collaborative, compassionate, and privately funded initiative and urge Akron’s leaders to approve this proposal. Together, we can provide relief for those most in need while ensuring the safety and dignity of our community.