Male Black, 54

He was sitting quietly on a chair in front of Straus Hall. When I told him my name was Condy, he laughed and said his name was Cody, just one character different.

Me: Where do you stay overnight?

Cody: On Mass Ave.

Me: Do you need a tent or a sleeping bag?

Cody: No, I have a tent and a sleeping bag.

Me: How do you stay warm on cold nights?

Cody: I have my ways to keep it warm. (Actually, I don’t know how.)

Me: According to local rules, will the police expel you if you set up tents on the street or sidewalk?

Cody: No, I have a good spot that’s not easy to find. I pack the tent in the morning, so it’s not considered camping. I stay with some of my friends.

Me: Do you mind showing me your tent spot?

Cody: No, it’s a really good spot for camping. I’ve spent overnight there for over eight years. I don’t want to share it with strangers. (He answered with deep concern, doubt on his face.)

I immediately explained to him that I meant no harm and only wanted to learn more about his situation to see if there was anything I could do to help. Cody said he usually collects money on the street from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM and maybe someday he would show me his good, secret tent spot. He left me his mobile number.