Share Center, Haven: ‘We Can Do More’

Officials from Battle Creek's two go-to shelters for the homeless tell WBCK they could do more to address root causes of homelessness and panhandling in the city.

Doug Stewart, executive director of the Share Center - Battle Creek's daytime homeless shelter - tells WBCK he feels organizations like his could do more to help people who panhandle or who are homeless, and that could be a better alternative to the panhandling ordinances being considered now by the city commission.

When asked if such an endeavor would require additional funding for the Share Center or The Haven of Rest, Haven Fund Development Coordinator Daniel Jones said he believed it could be done using the existing budget.

Stewart agreed.

On a 5-4 vote, the Battle Creek City Commission recently moved to advance two ordinances meant to offer greater enforcement power to law enforcement working to stop aggressive panhandling in the city. A second and final vote is expected September 6, 2016.

Hear Stewart and Jones elaborate on their positions by clicking the player below.

Hear The Richard Piet Show weekday mornings from 5:30-9 on WBCK.