Cape Cod Residents Oppose Homeless Shelter Relocation Near Elementary School
Cape Cod residents are raising concerns over plans to move a homeless shelter just one block away from an elementary school in Hyannis. The proposed relocation of St Joseph’s House from 77 Winter Street to 460 West Main Street has sparked significant debate among locals, parents, and community leaders. The new location would be approximately 150 yards from Hyannis West Elementary School, which serves around 300 students from kindergarten through third grade.
The Housing Assistance Corporation and Catholic Charities have stated that the move is intended to provide a safer environment for shelter guests and allow for more programming. However, they clarified that the new site will not serve more homeless individuals than the current facility, which accommodates 50 people at a time.
Local residents, including Tara Ann Broadhurst from Barnstable, have voiced their worries about the potential impact on student safety during pick-ups and drop-offs, as well as around school property. Broadhurst emphasized that while people need help, it should not come at the expense of children and residents. She also highlighted concerns about how the shelter’s operations might affect the surrounding area, particularly during early morning hours when students are traveling to multiple schools.
The town of Hyannis, known for its association with the Kennedys, has long been a symbol of prosperity and charm. The Hyannis West Elementary School has even been supported by the JFK Hyannis Museum, which plays a role in preserving the legacy of President John F. Kennedy. As part of its after-school programs, the museum teaches students about JFK’s love for the water.
However, the proposed shelter relocation has raised questions about the broader implications for the community. Some residents argue that the new location is not ideal, as it is situated in a densely populated residential area. They suggest there are other locations that are closer to jobs and amenities, which would better serve both the homeless population and the local community.
The Barnstable School Committee has expressed concerns about the relocation and has voted to send a letter to the project’s leaders. Andre King, a committee member, emphasized that the health and safety of students is a central responsibility of the committee. The proposal has also faced criticism on social media, with some locals calling it a “ridiculous idea” that does not address the root issues of homelessness.
Another local questioned the logic behind the move, asking what additional services the unhoused would receive in the new location. Others worried that the presence of the shelter could deter customers from local businesses, potentially harming the economy.
John Kimball, owner of Steve Sue’s Par-Tee Freeze on Hyannis’ Main Street, shared his concerns about the potential impact on his business and the community. While he values the cheerful environment of his establishment, he admitted that the shelter’s presence could create challenges.
Rick Brigham, who worked at St Joseph’s for 27 years, praised the shelter’s impact but called for a different approach to relocation. He pointed out that the program only allows overnight stays, forcing individuals back onto the streets by 7am each day.
Residents fear that the potential for issues will be magnified if the shelter is moved within 300 yards of the elementary school. The relocation is estimated to cost between $4.8 million and $6 million, with Cape Cod’s 15 towns asked to contribute $100,000 each toward the renovations.
Housing Assistance Corporation and Catholic Charities have defended the move, stating that the current shelter on Winter Street was never designed as a proper shelter. They cited issues such as lack of ADA accessibility, inadequate bathrooms, and health risks during the pandemic. Planners also noted that the aging homeless population requires a safer, one-floor facility with proper ventilation and space for programming.
Despite these arguments, many residents remain unconvinced. A group called Neighbors Advocating for Neighbors in Need has filed an appeal against the building permit, which will be evaluated by the town’s Zoning Board of Appeals on June 10. The group argues that the shelter should not be moved because it releases homeless individuals on the street at the same time students travel West Main Street.
Housing Assistance Corporation and Catholic Charities have emphasized that the new shelter remains within the same downtown corridor and will enhance safety through a purpose-built facility. They also noted that the shelter serves only 50 of the approximately 550 individuals experiencing homelessness on Cape Cod.
