How to help the families left homeless in Muskegon Heights after landlord fails to pay utility bills, city condemns building

After being forced from their homes at 309 E. Hackley Ave. in Muskegon Heights, 15 residents between the ages of 11 months and 60 years old are in need of support as they find themselves homeless just before Christmas.

The residents were displaced after the landlord, James Duncan Jr., did not pay utility bills for the property, and the city condemned the building last Wednesday, Dec. 19 because of dangerous living conditions, according to officials. Because utility bills had not been paid, the building had no electricity; individuals were using candles for light and at least one stove was being used to keep people warm.

Muskegon Heights Fire Chief Christopher Dean told Fox 17 that city officials had been working with the landlord for more than a year to address issues at the building. Dean noted that the city had filed a court complaint against Duncan, the pastor at The Revival Miracle Temple, and his wife due to the dilapidated conditions at the building.

To help the individuals who are now homeless, Community enCompass will be accepting donations today, Dec. 24, from 11:30am to 1pm at 19 Hartford Ave. in Muskegon. Items that have been requested include: warm clothes, underwear, socks, blankets, hygiene items, and non perishable food that can be heated in a microwave.

Community enCompass’s Sacred Suds will open at 12pm Wednesday, Dec. 26 for any families who have been directly impacted by the eviction. Showers and laundry facilities will be available; hygiene kits and warm meals will be provided. Sacred Suds is located at 289 E. Larch Ave. in Muskegon.