FARGO (KFGO) – The Fargo Police Department, with the help of Public Works, cleaned up several homeless camps along the Red River last week.
The police department said it is to help people living near the river and keep the area clean. Lieutenant Bill Ahlfeldt said the homeless population boomed in the downtown area last summer.
“We were receiving a lot of community complaints of individuals trespassing, going into private property, they were camping very close to bike paths and people were concerned about others’ safety when they’d see them in there,” Ahlfeldt said.
Fargo Public Works Services Manager Paul Fiechtner said his department is called to help clean up about once a year. Last week, their work was focused mainly under the Main and NP Avenue bridges.
“We had crews go in there and pick up debris,” Fiechtner said. “There were all kinds of things under the bridges from wood, metal, food packaging, things like that. So, there’s things to clean up and keep the area clean.”
Fiechtner said they hauled away a truckload and a half of brush and debris.
Ahlfeldt said that as we get into the winter months, they want to help people get services they need. He said there are a number of resources available.
“[There are] anywhere from mental health services to medical health and housing programs meant to educate and then also just to entertain – keep people busy, give people something to do.” Ahlfeldt said. “So, they’re doing a very good effort to help the community.”
The police department said the cleanup was part of a monthly effort organized by the department, Mobile Outreach, Fargo Parks, and River Keepers.
So what exactly did you do to help these people Get services? were pamphlets handed out, were Outreach people present. Many people do not know HOW to access services