TUCSON, Ariz. - The City of Tucson is giving a homeless camp near Santa Rita Park notice to vacate.
The empty, privately-held lot known as Camp Bravo has become a refuge for the less fortunate for three years now.
Since the city gave the OK to use the land for a homeless camp, it has grown into a compound with tents and volunteers helping with food and other services.
The action to clear out the living space was taken Thursday, Andrew Squire, a spokesman for the city said. The some 42 men and women living there have until the end of the weekend to move out.
The news was posted to the Camp Bravo Facebook page with much anguish.
Addie Mendonca, the self-described leader of the camp, says she and others were planning a Thanksgiving meal at the camp next week.
The city says they've sent homeless advocates and social workers to the camp to help with the transition.
"We trying to be very compassionate about it," Squire said. "We've been very deliberate about respecting property and helping with services."
The city will begin dismantling the tents and removing items next week.
