On April 21, 2025, Merced County, in collaboration with the City of Merced, California Highway Patrol (CHP), Caltrans, and local non-profit organizations, initiated the cleanup of a homeless encampment situated near the intersection of Highway 99 and East Childs Avenue. The encampment, located on private property within an unincorporated area, housed over 50 individuals.
Prior to the cleanup, residents received advance notice and were offered supportive services. Several individuals accepted shelter accommodations, and caseworkers engaged with residents for weeks leading up to the operation, providing one-on-one assistance to facilitate transitions into stable living environments.
The cleanup involved the removal of more than 60 vacated structures and several tons of debris, utilizing heavy machinery operated by the Merced County Sheriff’s Office and the Department of Public Works. While the majority of the cleanup was completed on April 21, additional efforts were scheduled for the following days as needed.
Board of Supervisors Chairman Josh Pedrozo emphasized the necessity of the cleanup to safeguard community health and well-being, stating, “Given the amount of supportive services we offer, encampments like these are unnecessary and pose a significant challenge to our community.” He highlighted the availability of shelters, transitional and supportive housing, mental health services, substance abuse assistance, food and welfare services, and employment support, urging individuals experiencing homelessness to utilize these resources.
Merced County and its partners remain committed to long-term solutions for homelessness, focusing on expanding access to shelters and transitional housing, enhancing supportive services, and strengthening collaborations with non-profit organizations and service providers.
Individuals seeking assistance can contact Turning Point Community Program’s New Direction Project at 3333 M Street, Merced, or by calling (209) 205-3123.
