LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — A viewer and local mother reached out to 13 Action News recently because she was upset to see tents bearing the logo for Deja Vu Showgirls being used by homeless people near downtown Las Vegas.
The viewer, who wishes to remain anonymous, told 13 Action news that she was driving with her small children on Bonanza Road near the downtown area when her child saw the tents and asked about Deja Vu. The mother says that she was "taken back" and described the company in unflattering terms such as "immoral" and "disgusting."
Deja Vu Showgirls describes itself as a classic Las Vegas strip club and claims to be the No. 1 topless strip club in the world.
13 Action News reached out to Deja Vu for an explanation and they sent the following statement:
It was recently brought to our attention (now by multiple outlets) that some community members are upset by the fact that the homeless population in Las Vegas have clothing and tents that bear our logo. It is 100% true that we provide warm clothing and sleeping tents for the less fortunate. This just seems like the right thing to do during the holidays. While some seem to think that the solution is a camping ban, we think that the solution is one that includes decency and kindness. We hope that others can show some humanity and do their share to take care of the most needy among us.
The City of Las Vegas recently passed a controversial ordinance that will make it illegal to camp or sleep on sidewalks if there is space at local shelters in Las Vegas.
Megan Swartz with Déjà Vu says it's an act of charity, and a response to the city's future anti-camping ordinance.
"I think that it's pretty unfortunate that that city passed that ban against camping that doesn't go into effect in February of 2020, and we're always doing our part to help however we can."
Swartz said the company does extensive charity work in the community, and says it has been difficult at times due to the stigma of its business. She says the support on social media has made it all worth it.
"It was so positive and so uplifting. This is amazing to read on Christmas Eve. This is great and it warms my heart."
This isn't the first time that Deja Vu Showgirls has helped the community. They have donated water and socks previously to those in need in the Las Vegas valley.
