Long Beach Nonprofit Faces Challenges Amid Growing Homeless Encampment

LONG BEACH, Calif. (KABC) — In a hidden corner of Long Beach, Sheila Grantham, affectionately known as Ms. Sheila, has created a sanctuary for local youth through her nonprofit, Adventures to Dreams Enrichment. The organization operates a community youth garden, inviting children to engage with nature and enjoy the outdoors. "I know I'm doing something great in this community," Ms. Sheila expressed, highlighting the joy the garden brings to both the kids and herself. However, the garden's serene environment is threatened by a nearby homeless encampment, which has expanded to include tents and tarps along the adjacent street. Ms. Sheila has voiced her concerns about safety and the negative impact the encampment has on her program. "It'll be heart-wrenching to let it go because of this," she lamented, noting that the encampment has deterred families from participating in the garden activities. The situation has already led to a decline in enrollment, with ten parents withdrawing their children after witnessing the encampment. Ms. Sheila emphasized her commitment to feeding families in need and ensuring a safe space for those who tend to the garden. "The more that increases, the less chance that I'll be able to continue to do that," she said, expressing her fears for the future of the program. Despite the challenges, Ms. Sheila remains hopeful that action will be taken to address the encampment issue, allowing her to continue her mission of enriching the lives of local youth.