Lawrence City Orders Tents Removed From House of Mercy Property

Lawrence, Massachusetts, officials ordered the removal of tents set up by the House of Mercy organization on a religious group's property. The city issued the directive after the shelter installed the tents slightly more than a week ago.

Roger Farah, the founder of House of Mercy, stated that the group has begun dismantling the camp. He described the move as temporary. The organization has served homeless individuals with food and clothing since 2018.

The city has assessed four violations against the site. Farah questioned these findings. He reported that the city began issuing fines on Friday. The daily fine amount stands at 1,200 dollars.

A woman staying at the camp told Farah that the city treated the residents like trash. She asked where they would go next. Farah relayed her words to explain the group's frustration with the relocation order.

Mayor Brian DePeña issued a statement regarding the conflict. He noted that humanitarian intent does not exempt organizations from building and safety codes. The statement listed requirements for fire prevention, health, sanitation, and zoning.

Farah said the group hired an attorney to fight the order in court. The organization is currently reviewing its legal options. Farah emphasized that the group is not requesting funds or aid from the city. He asked that the community allow the shelter to continue its work.