A Journey of Ten Years

I do not fit even my own idea of homelessness, but in some ways, I have been. I have had an easier time of it than most other homeless people. Maybe I’ve just been address-less, even though my mail still goes to my last address.

The homelessness I most connected with was shelters, such as the first picture. In Calgary I volunteered with Inn from the Cold in Calgary. My daughter and I helped with the set-up for supper in a local church. The days were spent outside, at the library and other safe (or not so safe) spaces in the city’s downtown. Some people had jobs, but no home or car. This is probably pretty safe but unpredictable. After all, there might not be room for you.

Something I see more of as I use public transit in Southwestern Ontario – and it is happening all over Canada – is tent settlements or communities. There has been a lot of legal action where these encampments are being destroyed by law enforcement. The fact that they exist is sad enough.

Choice or Necessity?

These two options are a little different. Some people choose couch-surfing as a way to find lodging while travelling. Others choose to live in their cars to save money – but it is optional. For others, not so much.

Couch surfing is another form of homelessness, and this is closer to my experience. My beds were warm, safe, and comfortable. Most days, I was the in-home caregiver/companion for my mom, who is now unable to walk. My break weekends were spent at my sister’s house or staying in the Guesthouse in London while visiting my own family. It has had its challenges – depending on family.

I don’t have any data – well, actually I do, now: The Homeless Hub refers to couchsurfers as the hidden homeless and estimates that for every homeless person getting help, there are 3 more that are not accessing supports because they have – well a couch. Still, there isn’t a lot of security in this kind of living either.

Living in your car (if you can afford one) is another option. Most of my image searching showed well-organized, well-furnished living or sleeping spaces. For these people, living in their cars was an option. For others, as this San Diego story suggests, car living is the only choice. And it is not without its challenges.

To end, I found this article about a woman in London, Ontario who ended up living in her car, too. She had a home that got flooded, and she had to move out while repairs were taking place. Many families are living precariously. Homelessness is a possibility for many.

I have lots of thoughts, but this is enough for one night.

If you have a safe, and secure home, be grateful. If you don’t, I pray you have one soon.

Marcia