April 23, 2022 Encampment Update (Kitsap County)

Five of us circulated the Veterans Park Encampment April 23. Unhoused tent campers remain within the camp with limited resources or plans to vacate, yet many verbalize the concern and anxiety associated with leaving. Surveys continued to be gathered as the day of eviction, April 29, draws near. Forteen unsheltered residents provided feedback via the surveys over the past two weeks. Some were offered housing or shelter by Kitsap County workers, yet there was never the perception from the Veterans Park campers of how they would practically be housed or find housing. Government and county leaders are being soliciited and gently pressured to consider the dilemna of these individuals and come up with practical solutions. Medical needs continue to be associated with wounds secondary to burns from explosive batteries, fires and agressive attacks with sharp objects. Surprisingly, many of these wounds are well defined, healing and medical care has been sought outside the encampment as needed. Mental health remains evident as problem solving related to plan of action remains evasive for many. Prayers continue to be needed. As you view the pictures from the camp (below), know that there is a significant rat infestation which has been very troubling for the campers and may be the reason behind the eviction by the county and city officials. Rats were observed throughout the campsite. No needles are seen on the grounds, but sharps containers are also available and are being utilized as needed. NW Hospitality has helped clear out 130,000 tons of garbage over the past year, but with the upcoming eviction, has stopped cleaning up the park which is technically the county's responsibility. Lived Experiences representative Jay and NW Hospitality director, Anton are instrumental in providing support and daily resources as needed, such as socks, tents, batteries, cell phone cards, transportation to/from medical appointments, COVID kits. Wound care has been limited to assessment and cleansing/covering wounds as needed. Encampment visits continue weekly on Saturdays at 2:30-5PM and open to anyone interested in providing presence and support to the campers. Reach out the NW Hospitality director (Anton Preisinger) if interested in offering your support as you are able to do so. https://www.nwhospitality.org/ Uncertainty exists for next steps if and when there is eviction follow through next week. Stay tuned for updates as they happen.