"This is what I like to see," commented Flathead County Commissioner Brad Abell. "This is what accountability and community support looks like." Armed with a pair of work gloves and extra-large trash bags, Commissioner Abell joined the cleaning crew.
Roughly 20 people, including homeless community members, showed up to a well-hidden encampment off Highway 93 bypass on the south side of Highway 2 along the bike trail. It was apparent several communities were established here, along the creek and behind the berm from the highway. This first-time coordinated effort seemed joyous and satisfying for everyone.
We were told that, before arriving, some clean-up work had already taken place with bulky items (sleeping bags, blankets, towels, and clothing), piled together before everyone arrived. Gloves and bags were made available, and some volunteers brought long grab sticks or their work gloves to avoid pricking themselves on glass or syringes.
KPAX News and The Daily Inter Lake were on the scene for photos and interviews with team members from New Now Village, the Collaborative Housing Solutions of Northwest Montana, Flathead Warming Center, Kalispell Park and Rec, and other homeless outreach teams.
"It was a nice event," said Abell. "This was what we (the County Commissioners) were wanting to see," referencing the Letter to the Editor back in January. "No one wants chronic homelessness in their community. But it takes tough conversations to change behaviors. This is a great beginning, and I am excited to see more."