Community helps well-known local figure experiencing homelessness in Lancaster

LANCASTER, S.C. — You can often see Mr. George walking around town in Lancaster, usually talking to someone near the doorway at 107 S. White Street.

“He’s very kind and you can talk to him for 20 minutes or 30 minutes,” said Bill Selvitelle. “Mr. George usually walks around the city of Lancaster at different places he makes his home he’s been doing that for years I’ve been told.”

But in recent visits, Selvitelle has seen the health of Mr. George decline as he has been experiencing homelessness.

“His feet were getting so bad. He couldn’t stand up and walk and he got to the point as the months progressed, that he was no longer able to walk,” said Selvitelle. “He was just laying down all the time.”

ALSO READ: Roof Above helps people experiencing homelessness move into repurposed apartments

Beckee Garris noticed Mr. George’s condition as well. She works across the street on S. White Street, and she told Channel 9 about her last conversation with him.

“I asked him if he needed anything,” Garris said. “And they said, ‘Yeah, I’d like some coffee,’ and I said, ‘Well, how would you like it?’ and he said, ‘Black.’”

But that was a few weeks ago. White Street hasn’t seen Mr. George walking around because he’s in the Lancaster hospital after community members rallied to get him care.

“They came up with a game plan to get him off the street under a protective custody order,” said Selvitelle.

“Thank God, he’s getting the help he needs now,” Garris said.

But Selvitelle says Mr. George’s situation is part of a larger issue, saying he’s “just one of many.”

“Other people are living in the woods or living behind buildings, and there is a homeless population that really needs a lot of help,” Selvitelle said.

Garris said she’s just thankful Mr. George has a community looking out for him.

>> In the video at the top of the page, Channel 9′s Almiya White shows how community members in Lancaster are coming together to help Mr. George.

(WATCH BELOW: CMS says 3,300 students are experiencing homelessness so far this school year)