In Jacksonville, Illinois, a remarkable transformation is taking place as a group of individuals experiencing homelessness has found a welcoming and supportive environment at Lake Jacksonville. This positive shift comes after a growing encampment near an art gallery faced challenges, including unwanted disturbances from passersby.

Faced with the question of how to create a better situation for these individuals, city officials, along with community leaders, came together with a creative solution. Jeffrey ‘Grandpa’ Grable, the compassionate leader of the group, played a pivotal role in this initiative. He and local volunteers reached out to the group, asking if they would prefer to move to a campsite equipped with showers, restrooms, water, and electricity. The response was overwhelmingly positive.

The group has now embraced a two-week camping adventure at an official campsite by the picturesque lake. Remarkably, this initiative has been supported entirely by generous donations from local organizations and churches, allowing the group to enjoy this new experience without any financial burden on the city. A local pastor even provided transportation to help them reach the campsite, and an anonymous sponsor is covering the nightly fees.

At Lake Jacksonville, the group has discovered a peaceful sanctuary away from the difficulties they faced on the streets. Grable expressed their joy, noting, “It’s wonderful. Really loving it, the showers are wonderful. Yes. Everybody’s clean and we’re working along getting clothes and getting laundry done.” The safety and serenity of the campsite have allowed them to relax and enjoy their time together, free from the harassment they previously encountered, especially during the nighttime hours.

It’s important to highlight that the move to the campsite was entirely voluntary. Both law enforcement and Grable confirmed that no one was compelled to leave their previous encampment. Instead, they were presented with an opportunity for a more tranquil living situation, and the choice to accept it was theirs alone. Police Chief Doug Thompson noted that everyone opted for the campground, and the only minor complaint he heard was about the fishing not being fruitful.

Grable, a dedicated Army veteran who has faced homelessness since January, expressed gratitude for this chance to escape the chaos of their previous living conditions. He remarked, “happy to get away from the madness.” Furthermore, despite unfounded rumors of trouble at the campsite, the superintendent of Lake Jacksonville, Brett Gilbreth, praised the group, stating they have been “nothing but good people… kind and peaceful and nice.”

Though this stay at Lake Jacksonville is temporary, local officials are already working alongside Grable to plan for their future. Volunteer Chaplain Alan Bradish has been meeting with individuals to assess their needs and create tailored plans for support. Grable is also diligently saving his social security money to help secure housing for the group.

Throughout his life, Grable has been committed to caring for others, saying, “I mean, I’ll go without to make sure you don’t. I’ll go without a meal to make sure somebody else gets fed.” His dedication to helping those around him is a beautiful testament to the kindness and compassion that can thrive in our communities.

This uplifting story is a reminder of the goodness that can emerge when people come together to support one another.