California River Cleanup Uncovers Homeless Living in Caves, Reports Reuters

A recent cleanup effort along a river in California uncovered an unexpected find: individuals experiencing homelessness living in caves excavated into the riverbank.

In Modesto, California, local police announced on Tuesday that they had teamed up with a volunteer organization to remove debris from the Tuolumne River over the weekend when they stumbled upon the cave homes. Reports indicate that there were eight caves, each furnished with beds, tables, and chairs, which surprised residents who had been unaware of the extent of these makeshift dwellings.

Modesto police informed that the individuals residing in the area had been notified of the impending cleanup and were offered assistance to help them transition into permanent housing.

Following the discovery of the caves, city and state officials quickly enacted safety measures, blocking access with barricades and temporary fencing while they evaluated the structural integrity of the surrounding areas, according to a statement from the city.

“The City recognizes the importance of not only addressing the immediate safety risks but also working towards a comprehensive solution to permanently eliminate these caves,” the statement read.

Homelessness continues to be a pressing issue throughout California. An estimate from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development indicated that there were over 180,000 homeless individuals in the state as of last year.

The volunteer organization has been actively involved in restoring the Tuolumne River since 2014, focusing on the stretch between the 9th Street Bridge and a major highway.

Modesto, a city of approximately 220,000 residents, is located in the northern part of the agricultural San Joaquin Valley, about 90 miles east of San Francisco.