Texas Attorney General’s Lawsuit Sparks Debate Over Homeless Ministry’s Role in Community

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton sued Sunrise Homeless Navigation Center in South Austin to close it, underscoring the difficulties of treating homelessness. The Sunrise Community Church-affiliated center helps the city's homeless. However, Paxton claims it has become a crime hub and a menace to a nearby elementary school.

Pastor Mark Hilbelink, who runs the ministry, calls many lawsuit accusations exaggerated or misleading. “We work to ensure everything we do is as safe as possible,” he added, noting that Sunrise provides homes and services, not long-term refuge.

The center provides food, medical care, and case management to thousands annually. Despite efforts, its closeness to Joslin Elementary School has raised neighborhood concerns. Parents and residents have reported homeless people using drugs and disrupting schools.

District 5 Councilmember Ryan Alter loves the center but admits its location issues. He stated, “The services they provide are vital, but the neighborhood tension is undeniable.”

According to Hilbelink, the ministry does not sponsor needle exchange programs but does distribute naloxone to prevent overdoses. Sunrise has also changed its hours to reduce client-student interaction.

The case underscores Austin's soaring homelessness, which has nearly doubled since 2020. Close Sunrise, advocates say, would strain an already-stretched system Alter and other authorities want state help to expand citywide services, relieving Sunrise's south Austin location.

The mission remains unaltered for Hilbelink notwithstanding legal challenges. “Homelessness is complex,” he remarked. “We must love all our neighbors.”

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