See Something, Say Something
The Start of Interviews — Tents in Garage
In 2023, our debate team were discussing ongoing issues with homeless encampments in Mass. and Cass. News broke out that many refugees are stuck at Logan Airport unable to find accommodations upon arriving in Boston. Eager to do something to help, we collected tents and sleeping bags (after seeing the…
Leroy’s Story
Male, Black, 49 years old, some secondary education. Leroy was sitting on the ground, leaning against the wall of a shop on Mass Ave in Harvard Square. Me: Why are you homeless? Leroy: Because I just got out of jail. Me: Do you have your SSN? Have you tried to…
Cody’s Story
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…
Feb. 10th Encounter
Location： at BOA door in Harvard square Time: 1:30 PM Weather: Sunny , 48 F Anonymous Black, approximately 60 years old. I actually encountered him twice, with the most recent meeting during Thanksgiving break. It was a cold day, and he was sleeping on the street, well-covered. He appeared to…
Shelter Staff’s Perspective
Jeane showed up while I was talking with Michelle to inform her that the bed lottery would be delayed until 2:30. She was very young, always smiling, around 20 years old, with a kind and peaceful voice. Michelle gave very positive comments about Jeane. I took this opportunity to ask…
Mike’s Story
White male, tall/thin, 48, single, high school education. Homeless for just one week, it was his first time at the shelter. While I was talking with Michele, Mike came to the entrance wall looking a little shy and nervous. He said “hi” to Michele and me. Michele told him that…
Michelle’s Story
White, female, 52, single, high school education Hey, how are you today ? “Good, but it is a little cold.” (It was actually a warm day compared to the past few days, and she was wearing a long down coat.) Why don’t you go inside to have a seat? (the…
Felix’s Story
White, 82 years old and originally from Greece, runs a handmade belt and shoe store in Harvard Square. While walking around Harvard Square to find more homeless individuals to talk with, I was drawn to this store by three identical posters on the glass reading “Sock donation for the unhoused.”…
Matthew’s Story
Date：Nov 25th Location：240 Albany Street (Caspar Emergency Care Center) Time: 4:30 PM Weather: Cloudy, 37F After wrapping up my work for the day, I walked to the shelter, which took approximately 20 minutes. To my surprise, I found myself standing in front of what appeared to be an MIT facility,…
Mark’s Story
Date： Nov 24th Location：Harvard Square, in front of CVS store Time: 3:30 PM Weather: Cloudy , 37F windy White, 51 years old, with a high school education, and currently single.Born and raised in Lexington, Mark’s mother resides in Florida, while his father has passed away. . I stumbled upon Mark…