Homeless Encampment Disrupts Cambodian Buddhist Temple in Fresno

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A growing homeless encampment near a Cambodian Buddhist temple in Fresno, California is causing disturbances and safety concerns for the temple's worshippers. The temple has tried to treat the homeless with compassion, but the encampment has led to issues like drug paraphernalia being left behind. The city and county are working to address the situation, but the temple is limited in what it can do since the encampment is on adjacent private property.

Why it matters

This story highlights the challenges faced by faith-based organizations and communities as they try to balance their religious teachings of compassion with the practical realities of managing the impacts of homelessness. It also underscores the broader homelessness crisis in California, which has persisted despite government efforts to address it.

The details

Members of the Fresno Cambodian Buddhist Society Inc. say they have dealt with homeless individuals wandering into the temple before, but the current encampment stretching along the temple's walls is unprecedented. They have found drug paraphernalia, needles, and other concerning items left behind. The temple is limited in what it can do since the encampment is on adjacent private property, but it is seeking help from local government and homelessness organizations.

• The homeless encampment began growing near the temple during the winter months.
• On Thursday, the city's code enforcement and homeless outreach teams were dispatched to the site to assess the situation.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The city is trying to get in touch with the owner of the private property where the encampment is located, but has not received a response as of Thursday. The temple is also seeking help and support from local homelessness organizations.