A nonprofit founder in Phoenix, Arizona, was reportedly assaulted while distributing food to people experiencing homelessness on a Saturday evening. The incident occurred near 23rd Avenue and Indian School Road, prompting a police investigation after witnesses reported seeing a man and woman physically attack the founder while he was assisting homeless individuals in the area. Phoenix police were called to the scene at approximately 8:30 PM that evening.
The founder, Rick Sanchez, a long-time advocate for the homeless, was using his position to offer food to people in need when the assault occurred. Sanchez captured the incident on video, which he later provided to authorities. The video, which has been partially blurred due to an ongoing investigation, shows Sanchez attempting to manage the situation and protect both his team and the homeless individuals he was serving.
Assault During Humanitarian Effort
According to Sanchez, the altercation began after he offered food to a man and woman in the area. When he approached them with a meal, the couple reportedly became hostile and began to attack him. Sanchez tried to remain calm, focusing on de-escalating the situation and keeping the crowd composed. However, the situation escalated when the couple reportedly returned to the scene multiple times, threatening Sanchez and his team with verbal abuse.
The confrontation appears to be part of a recurring pattern of hostility Sanchez and his organization have faced over the years. In his statement, Sanchez explained that such incidents are not uncommon for him and his team. He recalled a time when he had been assaulted along the canal while distributing food, and another instance where a firearm was pulled on him. These violent encounters, according to Sanchez, are part of the ongoing challenges that come with his work in serving the homeless community.
The Role of Sanchez’s Organization
Sanchez, who has dedicated his time to helping people experiencing homelessness, emphasized that his team is not compensated for their work. They serve the homeless because it is the right thing to do, not for financial gain. He made it clear that the motivation behind their efforts was purely humanitarian. Sanchez also expressed frustration at the negative stigma attached to people who feed the homeless, recounting how some members of the public have harshly criticized them for their work. One of the common comments he has heard is that the homeless individuals they assist are “bums” or “pieces of trash,” and that feeding them is a “disgusting” act.
Despite the hostile environment and the risks associated with his work, Sanchez has made it clear that he will not be deterred. “We are defending them, feeding them, and helping them because that is the right thing to do,” Sanchez stated, underscoring his commitment to the homeless population, even in the face of threats and violence.
Police Investigation and Security Concerns
Following the assault, Phoenix police launched an investigation into the incident. They confirmed that the attackers—a man and woman—left the scene before officers arrived. At the time of reporting, no arrests had been made, but police stated they had collected all available footage, including the video taken by Sanchez during the assault. The video has become a key piece of evidence as authorities continue their investigation.
Sanchez’s account highlights broader concerns regarding the safety of individuals working to support homeless populations. He expressed the frustration of having to carry defensive tools, such as a pepper ball gun, to protect himself and his team while performing what should be a simple, non-confrontational task—feeding people in need. His comment about carrying a defensive weapon speaks to the escalating tensions around homelessness in certain areas of Phoenix and the growing hostility toward organizations providing aid to those who are unhoused.
Community Reaction
The attack on Sanchez has sparked outrage among those who advocate for the homeless and the protection of humanitarian workers. Many have pointed out the increasing challenges faced by nonprofits working to address homelessness and have voiced concerns about the safety of volunteers and staff members who are frequently targeted for their efforts. This incident has shed light on the difficulties faced by organizations and individuals dedicated to social good in a climate of growing resentment and violence against homeless people.
Despite the challenges, Sanchez remains resolute in his mission. He is committed to continuing his work, stating that the homeless community relies on his support. The support of his team and the local community is crucial, as the nonprofit faces these ongoing threats. The incident highlights a growing need for better security measures for those working to aid vulnerable populations, as well as a broader societal conversation about homelessness, public attitudes, and the risks associated with volunteer and nonprofit work.
As of now, the investigation continues, with authorities working to identify and apprehend the individuals responsible for the attack. Meanwhile, Sanchez and his team are preparing to continue their efforts, determined not to let violence stop their mission of feeding and helping people experiencing homelessness in Phoenix.