What the heck!?

[Wolferz]

http://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/...meless-n103786

[Flamebatter90]

But Daytona Beach Police Chief Mike Chitwood said the Jimenezes had been warned one week earlier to stop their weekly feeding sessions after local residents complained that some homeless people gathering in the park were defecating and urinating on the grounds, and that some were showing up drunk at dawn.

That's why.

[Jimbuna]

Seems a bit harsh on first reading but seeing the quote above and that below I can now understand why.

"We as a city have spent millions of dollars to turn that park into a place for families, kids and dog lovers," Chitwood said. "We have an ordinance that says when people want to perform acts of kindness or charity that they must coordinate with our local social service agencies.

"They were told (the previous Wednesday) that if they come back there, they would be cited and they could risk going to jail," Chitwood said. "There is a segment of the homeless population that is homeless by choice. I don't want to impugn them all. But some are homeless because they are sex offenders, substance abusers and bank robbers. That's why we ask (Good Samaritans) to coordinate with our social service agencies, because they know who needs to be served."

[fireftr18]

From time to time, I see an article about something similar. After more information comes out, there's always something involved that has nothing to do with the act itself, but the negative consequences of the chosen venue. No one can argue about feeding the homeless, but when a family oriented park is damaged and needs considerable cleaning as a result, then there is a problem.

[Rockstar]

It appears now its not so much about feeding the homeless. They seem more interested in drawing attention to themselves. Bunch of self righteous nincompoops.

[AVGWarhawk]

Jimenez, 52, a retired auto parts store manager. She and her husband, 60, a retired construction manager, operate New Smyrna Beach-based ministry called “Spreading the Word Without Saying a Word.”

They should spread the word(food) at their house. It is a nice act of kindness but the park was not created for food festivals. Churchs host food pantries and soup kitchens on church property. I suspect, if asked, a local church would provide a place weekly to host this event on their property.

The issue here is if a blind eye is turned on this event it sets a precedence for free-for-all-will.