A local entrepreneur in Savannah, Ga., has generously contributed to the efforts of a non-profit to establish a center for individuals facing homelessness, in response to increased restrictions on urban camping enforced by local authorities.
This year, ordinances banning urban camping, defined as sleeping outdoors on public property, were enacted first by Chatham County and then by the City of Savannah.
The contribution from Parker’s Kitchen to Union Mission aims to fund the construction of a new day center, potentially helping individuals in need to avoid legal issues related to these ordinances.
“We’re so excited to be continuing to work with union mission to try to help with solutions for homelessness,” Founder of Parker’s Kitchen Greg Parker said. “Homelessness is not a crime. They’re not criminals, and we need to be helping our brothers and sisters in their time of need.”
Parker announced a $1 million contribution to Union Mission Wednesday afternoon, money that will allow them to build a resource center for people experiencing homelessness.
The center is estimated to hold up to 150 people at a time, people that otherwise might be sleeping or camping outdoors.
“We have a lot of shelters providing for the homeless. We needed a day center so the people can come and be here during the daytime,” Parker said. “We’re really proud of the City of Savannah passing this ordinance. They’re really trying to do something about public encampments and sleeping outdoors on park benches and panhandling. We want to be part of the solution.”
Savannah and Chatham County’s newly adopted ordinances both make it a crime to sleep or set up your belongings outdoors in a public space.
Those who violate the ordinance are given one warning before they can be taken into custody and issued a fine. Property can also be seized.
“With this commitment, Union Mission will continue to push full steam ahead with our plans to open a center that focuses on outcomes. That’s what I said, outcomes for our area’s homelessness,” President & CEO of Union Mission Michael Traynor said.
The new center will be built on Oglethorpe Ave where a Family Dollar used to be, next to two other centers that also offer services for those experiencing homelessness.
“Union Mission has Grace House, Parker House for Women, and buying this Family Dollar store, this large building, is going to be able to have a campus for taking care of homelessness,” Parker said.
The new Union Mission center will be open during the day on weekdays from 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. and 8:30 a.m.- 2 p.m. on Saturdays.
The facility is set to open spring of 2026.
