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 there were only three bed lottery spots in the shelter and that I didn’t need a bed. I wished them luck. I had a short conversation with Mike.

Mike had just come from the hospital. He used to live with a friend and worked for a contractor company installing floors for Home Depot. He lost his job due to a drunk driving incident. After spending a week in the hospital, he couldn’t pay his rent and had to apply for a bed in the shelter. He seemed polite but unfamiliar with the process and a bit nervous as a newcomer to the shelter.