Homeless Advocates Sleep On Steps Of Montco Court To Raise Awareness

NORRISTOWN, PA — Advocates of the unhoused took to the steps of the Montgomery County Courthouse recently to bring attention to the plight of those suffering through homelessness, especially as the winter season is about to set in.

A group of around 50 individuals affiliated with the Norristown Hospitality Center held the 'Sleep Out' on the courthouse steps in Norristown late last week in solidarity with homeless Montgomery County residents.

The night after the event was held, Montgomery County safety officials declared a 'Code Blue' emergency weather declaration due to the frigid temperatures being forecasted in the Greater Philadelphia region.

Also the following night, the Norristown Hospitality Center announced that a community member identified only as "Willie (Sonny) P." had been found dead in the early morning hours behind the Norristown Transportation Center along the Schuylkill River.

"Willie was 81 years old," the center posted in a Facebook message. "Last year he came to the Code Blue shelter every night we were open."

The victim was described as "a very kind and helpful man."

"He built tents for people sleeping in the encampments," the group posted on social media. "He went out of his way to support people who were living on the streets with him. Everyone in the community was fond of him and protected him."

The comments were attributed to a center staffer identified as 'Amalthea,' but no last name was given.

The evening prior, the center's members took to the courthouse steps to raise awareness about the homelessness issue and share stories of those currently living on the streets in Montgomery County.

State Sen. Amanda Cappelletti, a Montgomery County Democrat, and County Commissioner Ken Lawrence, Jr., were reportedly in attendance at the 'Sleep Out.'

Also participating were representatives from the Montgomery County Public Defender Office, the Office of Housing and Community Development, the Montgomery County District Attorney's Office, Lower Providence Presbyterian Church, Victory Church, the Ann Frances Foundation and others.

Incoming State Rep.-Elect Greg Scott, a Democrat who will be representing the 54th Legislative District, which now includes Norristown, was also said to be in attendance.

"A huge token of appreciation and gratitude to our friends who receive services at the Center for sharing their stories with us," the center posted to Facebook.

Photos of the 'Sleep Out' can be seen in the embedded post below.

More coverage of the program can be found here in this link to an article on WHYY.