Lawrence Church Ordered to Shut Down Tent Community that Let Homeless Residents Stay on Church Property

Church dismantles homeless encampment after city threatens fines

A Massachusetts church that opened its property to homeless people is dismantling its tent community after the city of Lawrence ordered the church to shut it down or face $1,200 in daily fines, with officials citing concerns about public health and safety.

Lawrence church ordered to shut down tent community that let homeless residents stay on church property

A Lawrence church was ordered to shut down its tent community that housed the homeless.

Lawrence orders removal of homeless encampment

The Massachusetts city told House of Mercy, an organization aiming to provide shelter for people experiencing homelessness, to take down tents.

Mass. ‘homeless church’ will dissolve tent community on its own property after order from city

This story was updated on Nov. 2, 2026 at 8:40 p.m. with a statement from Lawrence Mayor Brian DePeña.

Lawrence Shuts Down House of Mercy Homeless Camp

Lawrence, Mass. ordered House of Mercy to dismantle a 26-tent homeless camp, scattering residents and sparking City Council backlash.