Homeless residents of a tent city in Camden, New Jersey are getting a second chance thanks to a local pastor and group of volunteers.
Last Thursday, all the tents in Camden, New Jersey’s Tent City came down. The residents—more than 50 in all—gathered their possessions together. Most had only a handful of things worth keeping; some left the scene empty-handed. But despite leaving the spot that had served them as a makeshift home for several years, the mood was not one of sorrow, but jubilation.
One by one, the men, women, and children of the Tent City next to a freeway exit ramp stepped onto a bus. Once they were all aboard, they were taken to the Wingate by Wyndham Hotel, where they would be treated to a free night, complete with hot showers, clean beds, and yes, even cable television. A local non-profit, Image and Attitude, fitted the guests for free business attire, and volunteers provided complimentary haircuts to anyone who wanted one.
“Once you get your hair done, especially women, your whole being feels better,” the stylist, Wanda Scott, told the Philadelphia Inquirer. “New attitude, fresh start.”
The people of Tent City had all fallen on hard times—some of them had lost their homes during the current recession, while others had been living on the streets for many years. But now they have a chance to hope for a better life, thanks to Pastor Amir Khan and his non-profit, Nehemiah Group, which organized this effort.
Immediately after learning about the Tent City’s existence, Khan took action: within six days, he’d raised over $250,000 to help the residents transition back into society, and has committed to financially support them with food, shelter, and other necessities for a full year.
“How dare we live in the lap of luxury when this is so close by?” he asked.
Soon, each of the Tent City residents will have the opportunity to live in a free apartment in New Jersey, and will receive continued care and support from local volunteers. Already, some are vowing to use their good fortune as a chance to help others rise above homelessness.
Others are simply overwhelmed by the second chance they’ve been given. “It’s happening,” said Bill Robinson. “It’s something you fantasize about and hope it would happen, and all of a sudden - boom! - it’s here. You’re blessed.”