A homeless encampment near the student housing at the University of California (UC), Berkeley, has gained attention online after a video surfaced showing its proximity to campus areas. Lyanne Melendez, a reporter for San Francisco’s ABC7 News, shared the video after taking her son to University Village, a housing complex owned by UC Berkeley, located in Albany.
Melendez’s post on social media highlighted the presence of homeless individuals near the apartments, calling out both Berkeley and Albany city administrations for the situation. Although the encampment is not on university property, it affects students and families who frequent the area.
A UC Berkeley spokesperson clarified that the university cannot directly address the issue because it lies outside its jurisdiction. John Paul Leon, a student at UC Berkeley, spoke about encountering homeless individuals routinely on the way to classes. He noted that while students might become accustomed to the sight, visiting families might find it troubling.
Leon believes that the university is eager to find solutions that clear encampments around campus, directing affected individuals to resources.
The presence of the encampment has frustrated nearby business owners like Emily Winston, founder of Boichik Bagels. She described the conditions as reminiscent of a third-world country’s slum, citing issues such as feces, needles, and threats to staff. Winston indicated a decrease in onsite sales as families become wary of visiting the area.
Despite having a location opened in 2023, Winston lamented the choice due to the encampment. She urged city leaders for a permanent solution, joining other businesses in a lawsuit against the city.
Winston points to city officials’ struggles to address the encampment due to legal challenges related to sweeps. She compared current efforts to temporary housecleaning.
Barry Braden, co-founder and CEO of Fieldwork Brewing Co., echoed similar concerns, emphasizing the need for effective action from city leaders. The brewery has communicated with Berkeley officials to seek interventions that provide services to individuals and restore community safety.
Berkeley’s city spokesperson responded by discussing ongoing municipal and legal strategies to address health and safety, in line with court orders. The spokesperson assured the community that steps are being taken to address the situation.
Melendez has provided no additional comments about her video post.
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