Massachusetts church dismantles homeless encampment following city order

House of Mercy Church in Lawrence, Massachusetts, has begun dismantling a tent encampment on its property after receiving a cease-and-desist order from city officials. The city threatened the church with daily fines of $1,200, citing zoning violations and concerns regarding public health and safety. The encampment, which served approximately 60 individuals, included 26 tents and two shipping containers repurposed as temporary housing.

Mayor Brian De Peña stated that while the city supports charitable humanitarian efforts, all organizations must comply with safety regulations and permitting requirements. The mayor noted that the city’s homeless population has grown to over 400 people, with Lawrence spending $1.9 million on homelessness-related responses during the 2026 fiscal year.

Pastor Roger Farah expressed that he felt a moral duty to provide shelter for those in need, despite acknowledging the encampment was not an ideal long-term solution. The church has requested donations to cover the fines already issued and stated a desire to collaborate with city officials to continue providing services and stability to the local homeless community.