Meet Oakland California's First Self-Governed, City-Sanctioned Homeless Camp


The 77th Avenue Rangers homeless encampment in East Oakland won recognition from police and other city agencies, while other encampments were destroyed, thanks to its location away from residential neighborhoods, its constructive relationship with neighboring businesses, and its ability to establish a peaceful, self-governed community. Home to about 35 people for more than a year and a half, the camp provided stability to the lives of unhoused people. Showers, food, medical and social services, and other amenities proved more helpful to residents than what they found on the streets or in city shelters.

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