LAKEWOOD, NJ – A New Jersey minister who has spent more than two decades helping people experiencing homelessness says his efforts have been put on hold just before Thanksgiving.
Minister Steven Brigham, president of the nonprofit Destiny’s Bridge, and volunteers provide food and supplies to those in need in Lakewood, including on holidays.
“I came here twice a week to the town square and set tables, and we distributed clothing and food to the poor,” Brigham said.
Lakewood resident Darlene DiDonato told CBS News New York that she has struggled with homelessness for years, but says Brigham is easing the burden somewhat.
“It’s not easy being here,” she said.
“I think it’s trying to force the homeless out of the city.”
Brigham says that when he came out earlier in November, however, a sudden change occurred.
“The Lakewood Police Captain came up to me and said, ‘Mr. Steve, you need a permit to come here.’ I said, ‘I’ve been doing this for 25 years and I haven’t needed one in the past,’ and he said, ‘Well, now you need one.’ So I was a little upset,” Brigham said. “I think it’s trying to drive the homeless out of the city.”
Brigham contacted an attorney, who has been in contact with the city.
Township is asking organizations to complete a contract for use of the town square
The municipality now wants all organizations to complete a ‘Hold Harmless Agreement’ – a contract – to be allowed to use the town square. According to the mayor, there are problems.
Lakewood Mayor Raymond Coles said in a statement:
“The City of Lakewood prides itself on caring for the well-being of all our residents. We have teams that work with homeless people and others in need every day. We have a robust housing program and our homeless prevention programs help keep people in their homes when they make are going through tough times or need help keeping their homes livable. We are the fourth largest city in NJ and have one of the lowest eviction rates in the state.
“We always work with organizations that want to help people in need. All we ask is that they help us plan their efforts to ensure we know who is using our facilities and to prevent anyone from exploiting the most vulnerable among us.
“We also have a responsibility to our residents and staff to ensure they have a safe environment and do not encounter any form of harassment during their daily activities.
“To paraphrase Dickens’ words, this is the year when the need is felt most acutely. Lakewood is committed to providing those in need with a safe place to lay their heads and will work with anyone who wishes to provide assistance to those who need it.”
The mayor told CBS News New York that Brigham is welcome to take office in the meantime, but Brigham is not convinced.
“I want something in writing to make sure that we can come here and that the other organizations can come here… I have a lot of clothes and a lot of blankets. that I want to come here, and that they need it,” Brigham said .
He would normally be out on Wednesday, but he says he will wait until he gets legal input. He hopes to return next week.
