'Not A Homeless Shelter': Nonprofit Pushes Back On Smear Of Eagleville Hospital Proposal

LOWER PROVIDENCE TOWNSHIP, PA — The nonprofit behind the proposal to bring transitional, short-term housing for the homeless to Eagleville Hospital is pushing back against what it says is a public smear campaign orchestrated by detractors who do not want homeless people in their community.

The Philadelphia-based Resources for Human Development says that misinformation has led some in the community to label the proposed "Genny's Place" a homeless shelter.

"Genny’s Place will offer an apartment-style setting and comprehensive support services to facilitate residents’ transition to independent living," Michael Pelusi, a spokesperson for RHD, told Patch. "Contrary to misperceptions, Genny’s Place is not a homeless shelter, migration complex, or a sanctuary for convicted sex offenders."

See previous coverage: Proposed Temporary Housing For Homeless At Eagleville Hospital Sparks Dispute

The proposal calls for the construction of a new building on Eagleville Hospital's grounds that would house a maximum of 60 residents for a period of 60 to 90 days.

Only homeless people from Montgomery County can use the facility, contrary to what the nonprofit says is a common myth.

"Rigorous screening processes will be in place to ensure the well-being of both residents and the surrounding community," Pelusi added. "Notably, no registered sex offenders will be granted residency at Genny’s Place."

The community response from the latest township meetings has been divisive, with some expressing support and others pushing back in organized fashion. An organization of opposing residents have gained more than 800 signatures on a Change.org petition aimed at stopping the project. A billboard decrying the project is up at the intersection of North Wales Road and Germantown Pike.

A Facebook group called "SAY NO to the Lower Providence HOMELESS MIGRATION COMPLEX" had 600 members earlier this week, but since appears to have been taken down.

"It (is in) too close proximity for the safety of our children," the petition claims. "The residents of the shelter are free to walk about, most will make their way to the Turkey Hill, which is adjacent to Eagleville Park with its adjacent Eagleville School."

Detractors of the project are planning a protest march from Eagleville Elementary School to Eagleville Hospital on Saturday, April 20, at 3 p.m. A group of counter-protesters who support the project intend to meet them on Ridge Pike.