Paterson pulls ordinance to restrict food distribution to the poor, but it could return

PATERSON — The Rev. Sarah Anthony and congregants from Grace Gospel Church can be seen near the city’s train station in the afternoons handing out food and sanitary supplies.

This effort, which began last year, is designed to help Paterson’s homeless population, people struggling with the rising cost of housing and inflation, and those still battling the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“It’s not all drugs,” Anthony said about the backstories of the people she encounters on outreach. “Some had really good jobs that they lost; others lost a family member and had to leave the only place they had to live.”

Anthony joined about 30 other community members Tuesday evening in front of City Hall to protest a proposed ordinance that seeks to crack down on those distributing food and other items to people in need.

Their complaints seemed to be heard. Hours after the protest, the City Council backed away from the ordinance, which was removed from the agenda at Tuesday’s City Council meeting.

The proposed ordinance had been revised during the past week, including a change that eliminated a requirement that charity groups set up indoor areas where people could wait for food, clothing and other items. Critics had said the provision seemed like an attempt by City Hall to hide Paterson’s poverty problem.

Read more: https://www.northjersey.com/story/news/paterson-press/2024/04/10/paterson-nj-bill-to-restrict-free-food-poor-pulled/73276690007/