A homeless encampment is causing concern at a Cambodian Buddhist temple in Fresno, with discarded drug paraphernalia alarming worshippers.
The Cambodian Buddhist Society of Fresno, facing increasing homelessness in the area—reportedly about 5,000 individuals—reluctantly adjusted to having these new neighbors during the winter months.
An official from the temple expressed that while there have been instances of homeless individuals entering the chapel previously, the current situation—an encampment stretching along the temple’s walls—is unprecedented.
Association director Danny Kim noted he witnessed someone pitching a tent in the cafeteria during quiet hours. He also mentioned finding needles and other equipment scattered around, which is obviously troubling.
“We want our community to feel safe here; it’s a concern for the health of the children who play on the grounds,” Kim remarked.
While temple members have always tried to approach the homeless with compassion, aligning with their beliefs, they’re finding it difficult to balance this kindness with rising safety worries.
Unfortunately, the temple has limited options to handle the situation since it’s on private property nearby. This area falls under the jurisdiction of City Councilwoman Annalisa Perea.
Perea stated she was unaware of any encampments within the city limits, but her team has been dispatched to work on solutions in collaboration with county efforts.
She confirmed that attempts to reach the property owner have not yielded a response.
The temple is reportedly seeking additional assistance from various homeless aid organizations in the county.
Amidst an estimated 5,000 homeless individuals residing in Fresno, Governor Gavin Newsom has downplayed the issue, recently announcing a 9% decline in homelessness even as the Los Angeles Police Department continues to respond to numerous calls about the crisis.
In related news, a restaurant in Santa Monica shut down temporarily due to health code violations, with concerns that pests might have come from a nearby homeless encampment. Additionally, a separate camp in Oxnard saw the removal of 33 tons of hazardous waste just last week.
