A vicious attack on a woman who has dedicated her time to feeding the homeless in MacArthur Park has shocked the community. Eva Woods, a long-time volunteer known for her selfless acts of kindness, was brutally assaulted with a metal pipe while serving meals to those in need. The attack left her with a shattered jaw and six teeth knocked out, requiring extensive medical treatment.
The incident occurred during the group’s regular Sunday lunch service in late February. The suspect approached Woods from behind and without warning, struck her in the face with a metal pipe. She was immediately rushed to the hospital and underwent surgery the following day. Doctors confirmed that both her upper and lower jaw were broken in the assault, leading to her jaw being wired shut and the need for dental implants to replace the missing teeth.
Woods has been running the MacArthur Project for the past six years, a volunteer-run initiative that provides over 700 meals each week to homeless individuals in the park. The project also offers hygiene kits, groceries, tents, and other supplies to those in need. The community has rallied around Woods, with a fundraiser organized to help cover her mounting medical bills. The GoFundMe page has raised approximately $39,000, exceeding the initial goal of $30,000 needed for dental implants and related medical care.
Despite the shocking nature of the attack, those familiar with MacArthur Park emphasize that this incident is not reflective of the community’s culture. The park has been a focal point for emergency calls related to the city’s homelessness and mental health crisis. The high volume of 911 calls from areas like Skid Row and MacArthur Park underscores the challenges faced by first responders in addressing these issues.
Woods remains determined to continue her work in the park once she recovers, expressing gratitude to the donors who have supported her during this difficult time. The outpouring of support from the community reflects the resilience and compassion that defines MacArthur Park, despite the challenges it faces.
