An increase in panhandlers at the Beavercreek Church of the Nazarene is causing some concern. So much so that the church has instituted new security measures. Prior to the new security measures, doors to the church were unlocked at 6:00 am. Now, all doors will remain locked until 8:00 am with the exception of one door which will be monitored by a church official.

According to the church, the change comes after a number of recent incidents of people coming into the parking lot & building asking for money. With the holiday season and other events picking up this time of year, the church felt the change was necessary. The church will institute the new policy starting November 9, 2009.

In an email sent to parents and local groups with morning events scheduled, the church explained, “Our main concern is the safety and well being of all the children that are in our care along with our staff.”

In the same email the church instructs guests, “If you are approached in the parking lot by anyone asking for money please do not give them anything and let us know so that we can contact the police. Any information that we can pass on to the police would be greatly appreciated such as car make, color, license plate number along with a description of the individual.”