LP Investigates Reports of New Unhoused Encampments

Monday, July 13th, 2026

This week, two of our LP board members set out to investigate several newly reported unhoused encampments throughout the Bloomington-Normal area. Our goal was to identify individuals who may be in need of basic necessities ahead of our upcoming street outreach efforts. In addition to surveying each location, we brought pre-assembled snack bags and cold drinks so that we could provide immediate assistance to anyone we encountered. Following the disbandment of the two major encampments we regularly served this spring, it has become increasingly important to locate where people have relocated, as life without stable housing is often highly transient.

Our first stop was a well-concealed encampment tucked away along a dirt path leading into a densely wooded area near one of the former camps. Although the site appeared capable of accommodating roughly 10 to 12 people, it was completely vacant when we arrived. We then traveled south into Bloomington to investigate reports of another encampment situated in a tree-covered area near a ravine. Similar to the first location, this site appeared much smaller and may have already been abandoned. Despite arriving during the early evening, around 5:45 p.m., we did not encounter a single resident.

Our final stop brought us back to a place that holds special significance for our team. Just two months ago, we assisted two individuals in establishing shelter there while connecting them with resources aimed at achieving greater stability. Returning to the site, however, we found that the tent we had helped set up was gone. In its place remained only scattered debris, abandoned belongings, and evidence that the area had once again been vacated. This was especially surprising given the extensive trail network, the number of abandoned tents throughout the area, and the many familiar faces we had encountered there earlier this year. Unfortunately, we were again met only with silence - and plenty of mosquitoes.

While we were disappointed not to connect with anyone or assess immediate needs for future programming, the experience reinforced an important reality: unhoused living is constantly changing. Summer heat, severe weather, safety concerns, access to basic necessities, and many other factors can quickly cause individuals and entire encampments to relocate. We plan to revisit these locations at different times of day and under different conditions in hopes of making meaningful connections. The information gathered during this effort will also help strengthen our outreach planning and support our ongoing collaboration with Home Sweet Home Ministries and other community partners as we work together to reach our neighbors wherever they may be.