City of Lawton exploring options for homeless community

City of Lawton administrators said they are continuing to address homeless issues by exploring new strategies to ensure individuals in need have access to critical resources.

City officials issued a press release late last week, in response to a move by the Lawton Salvation Army to relocate a homeless encampment it had established on the south side of its complex between Southwest E and Southwest F avenues, west of Southwest 13th Street. The new encampment site is on the north side of the complex/Southwest E Avenue. Officials with the Lawton Salvation Army would not comment on the situation or why the move was made, when asked by The Lawton Constitution on Friday.

City officials said in their press release that as part of the city’s commitment to homeless strategies, they are evaluating potential locations for a designated homeless encampment to provide a safe, low-barrier option for individuals in need. Officials anticipate having a plan in place in the coming weeks, should the Salvation Army be unable to continue its current operations, the press release said.

City police have been recommending and taking homeless individuals to the Salvation Army’s homeless encampment area after the City Council set a new ordinance into place making it illegal to camp in public places such as city parks.

In addition, city officials said the city’s bus program remains available for individuals who wish to reconnect with family, friends, or support networks in other cities. Funded by the City Manager’s Contingency Fund, this initiative provides bus tickets to destinations within the contiguous United States. Referrals for the program can be made through local homeless shelters, the Safe and Clean Neighborhood Services Division, the Lawton Police Department, or city homeless committees.

City officials also said they are assessing the legal feasibility of establishing a 501©(3) nonprofit organization to help sustain and expand services for the homeless community.

“We recognize the essential work being done by local nonprofits and service providers, and we are grateful for their ongoing support,” City Manager John Ratliff said in a statement. “However, as the need grows, we are committed to stepping up and exploring additional solutions to ensure vulnerable individuals have access to shelter and assistance.”