SEATTLE — Today was moving day on the Seattle Pacific University campus.
But it wasn't students moving in -- instead it was one of Seattle’s encampments known as Tent City 3.
The university told KIRO 7 why they wanted Tent City 3 in their backyard.
The Tent City 3 campsite took shape early Saturday morning outside of the student union at Seattle Pacific University.
"I feel pretty blessed. Yes, it's wonderful," said Jeff Roderick of his new home.
For the next three months, Roderick and up to 100 homeless men and women will be allowed to sleep in this enclosed area.
“Nobody's goal is to stay outside in the cold, at least not here,” said Roderick. “We want to better ourselves. And it's important to have a place to keep your belongings."
Roderick and around 64 others moved to SPU from their previous location at a Methodist church in Seattle's Roosevelt neighborhood. They admit no one got city approval to stay there.
But the private Christian university paid for a permit, bathroom facilities, and has been working to host Tent City 3 since last spring.
“What we want to do is learn from Tent City 3 how SPU can get along the efforts to end homelessness. That’s the thing we’re really about here,” said co-chair of the host committee, Owen Sallee. “I'd say Jesus calls us to do both of those. Not just care for people in the immediate needs -- but also how do we get around solving the bigger issue with you.”
This is the second time Tent City has moved into SPU. The university says there were no problems reported in 2012.
SPU pointed to the self-governed camp's “code of conduct” that demands sobriety and non-violence.
“All of these things make Tent City a good neighbor,” said Sallee.
Students, staff and volunteers helped build the foundation for the campsite Saturday morning.
Faculty member Ruth Ediger wanted to welcome her new neighbors.
“So -- what do you do with new neighbors? You bring a loaf of bread," she said.
Tent City 3 will stay on campus until March 7th.
After staying 90 days at SPU, Tent City 3 intends to move to Shoreline Free Methodist Church.
KIRO
