How to Help Former Residents of Riverfront Encampments

ST. LOUIS -- As the City of St. Louis assists riverfront encampment residents relocate to housing, an opportunity for community members to aid in this effort arises.

While several former encampment residents have been able to move directly into new homes, others are temporarily staying in area motels until their respective move-in dates. Residents will be provided with gift cards for groceries once they are in their own homes. However, they do not have access to a stove or refrigerator in the motels and therefore cannot store perishable items.

The City is appealing to local faith-based and community organizations to make donations of non-perishable foods for the residents. Chili, soup, macaroni and cheese, crackers, canned meats, canned vegetables, peanut butter, jelly, and bread are most needed.

“We appreciate what charitable organizations have done for those within the encampment,” said William Siedhoff, Director of Human Services. “As we all know, a little can become a lot when we work together. By pooling our resources, we can be great stewards to those in need.”

Donations of food can be delivered to the Housing Resource Center located within St. Patrick Center at 800 N. Tucker Blvd, St. Louis, MO63101.

Monetary contributions can be made to the United Way of Greater St. Louis—Encampment Relocation Fund, 910 N. 10th St., St. Louis, MO 63101 or by calling (314) 657-1702.

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