JACKSON, Miss. (AP) – The business community and local churches in Jackson are at odds over feeding the homeless at Smith Park.
The Clarion-Ledger (http://on.thec-l.com/1bEwH0p) reports some local businesses have been complaining of trash and other debris left behind on the weekends at the park.
Ben Allen, Executive Director of Downtown Jackson Business Partners, says various churches in the area are showing up with food trucks to feed the homeless but don’t have permits.
Matt Hopkins of Why Not Now Ministries says they have been serving meals at Smith Park since 2011 and clean up any debris they have.
Jackson’s Downtown Neighborhood Association president, Michael Rejebian, says groups are trying to figure out a solution that works for everyone and that pooling resources is the best way to help.