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 shelter hall was pretty empty)

“I am waiting for the bed lottery. I apply every day at about 10 AM, and they inform me at 2 PM. If I’m lucky, I will get a bed here tonight.” She reminded me kindly, “You’d better call them immediately if you need a bed.”

I told her that I didn’t need a bed and that I was a high school student interested in learning more about the shelter.

“How do you spend the night if you can’t get a bed? It’s very cold outside.”

“I have no idea. It’s f**king cold outside. I have to wait out there. Some of the staff are kind, and some are mean,” she said, pointing to the office inside.

“How long have you been homeless, and can you tell me the reason?”

“I lost my job at the age of 38 due to illness. I should have SSDI, but there was a mistake with my SSN, so I receive very little money each month. I don’t know why, but I am struggling to get SSDI.”

Michelle wanted to cook the food herself with some others, as she thought the shelter staff didn’t cook well and that it was a waste because the food could taste better.

While I was talking with Michelle, two young-looking guys walked out of the building. I assumed they were shelter staff or employees.

Michelle said that they had beds inside, meaning they were homeless. I was a little shocked and wondered why they didn’t want to get a job since they looked about 30 years old. Michelle laughed and said they were not young, more likely about 35-40. Maybe it is hard for them to get a well-paid job.”