The Benton Harbor community is working together to tackle the persistent issue of homelessness in their city, and a recent $15,000 donation could be a significant step forward in their efforts.
On Thursday, many residents came together at Bethel Christian Restoration Church to discuss both immediate and long-term strategies for helping individuals experiencing homelessness. The meeting was an opportunity for community members to share ideas and collaborate on solutions that could make a real difference.
Pastor Andrew Palmer led the discussion and shared his thoughts after attending a city commission meeting earlier in the week. He learned that city leaders were considering designating a specific area for homeless individuals near his church. While he appreciated the intention behind the proposal, he expressed concerns about the potential impact on the church community.
"I didn't necessarily feel comfortable with that decision or the proposal because I have a vibrant church with young people and elderly individuals," said Pastor Palmer. "Lack of security is one of my main concerns, and being close to a liquor store is another issue."
The city received a much-needed boost when MHT Housing President Van Fox donated $15,000 to support improved services for unhoused people. This contribution is seen as a positive move toward creating a designated space for individuals to gather, beyond just City Center Park.
City Manager Alex Little emphasized that addressing homelessness requires a collective effort from the entire community. "Finding a solution is not something the city can do alone," he said. "People need to understand that real problems require real solutions. A meeting is helpful, but it's not a solution by itself."
During the meeting, several ideas were proposed, including increasing the number of warming shelters at local churches and encouraging them to provide meals during colder months. Some participants even shared personal stories of their own experiences with homelessness, highlighting the growing national trend of people living without homes.
Pastor Palmer noted that the issue extends beyond Benton Harbor. "This isn't just a Benton Harbor problem—it's a Berrien County issue, and it will affect all of us to some degree," he said.
Bethel Church Board Member Cori Burton echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of bringing different perspectives together. "If you've been homeless or if you haven't, it's powerful to see so many minds coming together to find a solution," she said. "It's great to see this kind of collaboration in our community."
City Manager Alex Little pointed out that there is no single solution to homelessness. Instead, it requires a series of steps and ongoing efforts. This meeting was just one of many planned workshops aimed at developing comprehensive strategies to address the issue.
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