Florence Unveils New Ordinance to Address Homelessness

The city's approach blends law enforcement with compassionate support services.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 6:34am

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A softly focused, atmospheric photograph in warm, muted tones depicting a group of people sitting on benches in a public park, with the background slightly obscured in a hazy, dreamlike quality, conceptually representing the compassionate approach to homelessness in Florence.A compassionate approach to homelessness blends law enforcement with increased access to shelters and support services in Florence.Florence Today

Florence, South Carolina has introduced a new ordinance aimed at curbing the 'overuse' of public spaces by the homeless population. The initiative, while controversial, is taking a unique approach that combines law enforcement with increased access to shelters and support services. The ordinance has sparked both concern and hope, revealing the complex interplay between policy, enforcement, and community efforts to address the root causes of homelessness.

Why it matters

The Florence ordinance represents a shift in how cities are tackling the issue of homelessness, moving away from a purely punitive approach and towards a more balanced strategy that emphasizes education, guidance, and access to resources. This approach has the potential to create a more sustainable and compassionate system, but also raises questions about the long-term solutions needed to address the systemic issues driving homelessness.

The details

The new ordinance directs police to guide individuals experiencing homelessness towards shelters and support services, rather than immediately arresting them for trespassing. This change in enforcement, as described by Capt. Stephen Starling of the Florence Police Department, reflects a more empathetic and less punitive approach. The ordinance has also provided additional funding to local shelters, such as House of Hope, to help them maintain capacity and offer hotel vouchers when needed.

  • The ordinance was introduced in Florence in April 2026.

The players

Clint Moore

Assistant City Manager of Florence, who suggested the ordinance is about providing an opportunity for those experiencing homelessness to access the help they require.

Capt. Stephen Starling

A member of the Florence Police Department who highlights the shift from immediate trespass to a more educational approach, where officers guide individuals towards shelters and support.

Jon Weiss Jr.

The CEO of House of Hope, a local shelter in Florence, who initially expressed concern about the potential strain on their resources but has found the additional funding helpful in maintaining capacity.

No One Unsheltered Committee

A committee that has provided funding to local shelters, such as House of Hope, to offer hotel vouchers and other support services.

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What they’re saying

“Instead of arresting individuals, the police are now empowered to guide them towards shelters, offering a chance for redemption and support.”

— Capt. Stephen Starling, Florence Police Department

“The funds allocated by the No One Unsheltered Committee have been instrumental in providing hotel vouchers, ensuring that those in need can find temporary shelter when necessary.”

— Jon Weiss Jr., CEO, House of Hope

What’s next

The city plans to continue monitoring the impact of the ordinance and work with local shelters and support services to ensure that the needs of the homeless population are being met. The No One Unsheltered Committee will also be exploring additional funding opportunities to expand the resources available to those in need.

The takeaway

The Florence ordinance represents a shift towards a more compassionate and effective approach to addressing homelessness, blending law enforcement with increased access to shelters and support services. While this is a step in the right direction, it also highlights the need for comprehensive, long-term solutions to tackle the underlying causes of homelessness in the community.