Volunteers from Pantry 279 dropped off food and other donated items in Seminary Park Wednesday night.
The Pantry’s last day for 2020 was Wednesday, but it will reopen January 9, 2020.
Cakes, pies, cookies, muffins and fruits, perishable drinks other things, along with water were dropped off Wednesday night.
As winter weather moved into the Bloomington area dropping rain mixed with sleet onto the tents and the residents of the park people living there scurried to carry items into tents and out of the weather.
The City of Bloomington is currently talking with social services agencies to try to find solutions to Bloomington’s homelessness issue before a January 11th deadline. It’s unknown to The Bloomingtonian what will occur if those living in tents in the park haven’t moved out by the 11th.
The Bloomingtonian inquired about a December 23rd report in B Square Beacon that said those living in the park had until January 11th to leave, and got the following response from the City of Bloomington:
“There have been numerous conversations with service providers (Wheeler, Beacon, New Hope, Middle Way House) and philanthropic leaders (United Way, Community Foundation) and government entities (county, township trustees) over the last couple of weeks to work toward solutions for our residents experiencing homelessness. The City has shared with service providers that there will be a transition period–until Monday, January 11–to give those using the park for overnight camping a transition period during which to identify other options. The City is continuing discussions with these nonprofit and government partners to explore and help shore up those options.”
Editor’s note: The Bloomingtonian hasn’t had a chance to reach out to all these service providers to find out what the plan is for January 11th, but the date is rapidly approaching.
