Peekskill Homeless Shelter To Seek Less Controversial Location

PEEKSKILL, NY — CHHOP has dropped its plan to relocate the Jan Peek Shelter to Washington Street. The directors of Caring for the Hungry and Homeless of Peekskill announced on Facebook that they instead would seek a more isolated place in a more industrial area.

Their plan for 851 Washington St. divided the community, as supporters of the shelter and the neighbors who opposed the move traded arguments and barbs at hearings and on social media. There was a lot of misinformation floating around as well as very different views of homeless folks.

"We are saddened by the negative comments made regarding our residents, who want only to have a safe place to stay while reorganizing their lives," they wrote.

CHHOP officials want more space for semi-private rooms instead of dormitory-style beds. They also want space where those in need of emergency services can stay during the day. CHHOP also wants a kitchen in which its many volunteers can cook, plus more space for daytime social drop-ins, which officials said builds trust and can lead to homeless individuals getting needed treatment and support services.

SEE ALSO:

• Neighbors Fight Homeless Shelter Relocation In Peekskill
• Jan Peek House/CHHOP Planning a Move