Phoenix is facing a lawsuit following a new ordinance restricting food distribution and medical care to people in need at parks.
Every Thursday at Cave Creek Park — Cactus, St. Herman’s Table volunteers would serve meals to people experiencing homelessness. The suit calls this an act of “almsgiving” which “involves voluntary giving — money, time or goods — to the needy in Christ’s name.”
But a new city ordinance, which took effect last week, requires permits to distribute free food and non-emergency medical services in public parks, or face criminal penalties.
The outreach ministry of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross Orthodox Church has sued, claiming a constitutional violation on religious grounds.
In a statement, the city says it believes the ordinance is lawful.
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A second lawsuit has been filed against Phoenix, alleging its new park ordinance violates the Constitution. The city's ordinance bans the distribution of food and medical care in city parks without a permit.
