Community Center Shuts Down Due To Possible Asbestos -- MesoLink.org -- 09-23-05

A Los Angeles community center has been deemed unsafe and has been shut down by the authorities much to the horror of center staff and directors. The African Community Resource Center provides help and assistance to African refugees. The non-profit organization was shut down on the 10th of August.

The director of the center stated: "This is disastrous for us. We are not talking about just a work office. We are talking about services. Everything is stranded right now."

Officials said that the initial evacuation of the center stemmed from falling beams from the ceiling. However, the building is now also being investigated for the presence of asbestos, which could further jeopardize its future.

An official stated: "They were asked to leave for the safety of their physical being. I can clearly appreciate the concern that unfortunately some of the programs have to go into another community, and this can be disconcerting."

Officials have added that the closure of the center is a temporary measure until a new site could be found for it.