Encampment Removal Leaves Some In Norman Without Place To Stay

People experiencing homelessness who had been camping out on private property in Norman are looking for a new place to stay.

The group had been staying behind a grocery store near Interstate 35.

Wendy Vollmer told News 9 that the sound of bulldozers woke her up Wednesday morning.

"These guys were walking through with uniforms on and said that we had to go," she said.

City of Norman officials said the encampment was on private property. At a contractor's request, the city posted signs and reached out to Continuum Of Care, a program from the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development. The city also offered case management services weeks ahead of the move, officials said.

But for Edward Hobbs and Joanna Mooney, who had lived at the encampment for three years, they felt blindsided.

"The hottest day of the year. It was like 111 degrees out. Where are we going to go?" Hobbs said.

Despite the city's efforts, one city councilperson told News 9 that Norman needs to do more.

"The city can do a lot of things if they make it a priority. We just have chosen not to make this a priority," said Councilwoman Brandi Studley.

An overnight shelter for people experiencing homelessness closed about a month ago, and The Salvation Army is the only other option in town.

"We have availability for single women, single men, and families. Consistently we are at capacity," said Capt. Stephanie Christopher, commanding officer with The Salvation Army of Cleveland County.

They have space for 35 people.

Community groups are paying for hotel rooms for the people who lived in the encampment for a week. To help extend their stay and with any other resources click here.