Homeless Feeding Ban Blocked - Philadelphia News, Weather and Sports from WTXF FOX 29

Homeless Feeding Ban Blocked

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PHILADELPHIA -

Tere Kaufman stored up on sandwiches thanks to Liberti Fairmount Church.

Members serve homeless people like Tere sandwiches, potato salad and other goodies a couple times a month on the Parkway.

"I was glad I had waited. Its been 24 hours since I've eaten," said Kaufman.

Going a day without food is one reason why Tere's thankful a judge recently blocked Mayor Michael Nutter's  attempt to ban groups from serving  the homeless meals in the city's public parks.

Mayor Michael Nutter says it potentially spreads food-borne illnesses and robs homeless people of their dignity.

"Dignity!" Kaufman exclaimed laughing. "That is ridiculous. There is nothing undignified, the sun shining down and eating outdoors."

"The outdoor food service as it is conducted is inconsistent with overall and comprehensive
enjoyment and use of that particular space," Nutter explained.

The mayor wants to move outdoor serving centers in front of City Hall.

Then, after a year, homeless people would be fed from at least four indoor Center City locations.

Jason Ford says he's a homeless law school graduate. He thinks the mayor's plan is misguided.

"That's really the main issue, what are the causes of this problem," said Ford, "not to hide it or push it out of the way."

Improvements to the visitor center along the Parkway have recently been made.

Elena Kachanova and her son enjoy playing in the new wading pool. But she says the path to progress shouldn't come at the cost of those less fortunate.

"I know its an uncomfortable scene for regular citizens, but we should be witnessing what life is for some people."

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