FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Sage Lewis
Phone: 330-416-7519
Email: [email protected]
Advocate Begins Indefinite Camp-Out Protest Against Homeless Displacement in Akron
AKRON, OH 10/30/2024 — Starting tonight, Sage Lewis, founder of Houseless Movement Charity, will begin an indefinite camp-out protest next to 85 Kent Place, Akron, in direct response to the City of Akron’s notice to remove homeless individuals’ belongings by October 31. Lewis pledges to remain on-site, living in a tent, until meaningful dialogue begins about creating safe winter shelter options for Akron’s unhoused population.
The location holds particular significance as adjacent to a former shelter space operated by Houseless Movement Charity before city condemnation. Now, as winter approaches, this area represents ground zero in the struggle for homeless rights in Akron.
“I’m not just staging a symbolic protest – I’m putting myself in the same situation our unhoused neighbors face every night,” said Lewis. “Removing people’s belongings without providing viable alternatives isn’t a solution – it’s a death sentence as winter approaches. I’ll stay here as long as necessary to bring attention to our proposal for a Winter Safe Sleeping Space.”
The proposed Winter Safe Sleeping Space would operate from December through April, providing:
- A designated location away from residential and business areas
- Basic sanitation services including trash collection and portable restrooms
- Clean, maintained grounds
- Strict prohibition of illegal substances
- No financial burden on the city
Several potential locations have been identified, including parcels owned by METRO Regional Transit Authority and the City of Akron.
Healthcare providers, law enforcement, and social service organizations have indicated that a centralized safe sleeping space would improve their ability to deliver critical services to Akron’s homeless population.
Lewis begins his protest camp-out tonight next to 85 Kent Place, Akron, OH 44305.
About Houseless Movement Charity: Houseless Movement Charity is a non-profit organization dedicated to advocating for and supporting Akron’s unhoused population. Led by Sage Lewis, the organization has built trusted relationships with the local houseless community and works to develop practical, humane solutions to address the challenges faced by Akron’s most vulnerable residents.