Day 14: Walking in the shoes of the homeless and unemployed

Man, oh man. I arrived about 45 minutes early for my informational interview at Portsmouth Abbey School. To say I learned a lot would be an understatement, and it will help shape the work of the IFC here. The director with I met confirmed that Newport public schools need help. He also gave me some great information about other programs that have been successful in helping inner city youth get into independent schools (boarding and day schools) and then into college. Somehow, this is what the Coalition will be doing.

I had already planned to come to Newport afterward and just enjoy the energy. When I got off the bus at the transit center, this guy seated on one of the benches says, “There you are. I remember you!” I looked at him but did not immediately recognize him. He told me that he saw me here last winter wearing the same coat and a backpack. I teased him about washing windows in the cold.

“Oh, yeah! Now, I remember,” I chuckled, still a bit in shock. We went into the little café inside the station. He bought me hot cocoa and (my favorite) a pumpkin muffin. We talked and talked about my visit last year and what brings me back this year—permanently. Another lady joined entered the station and joined in on our conversation. The Window Man started telling about various agents to visit for locating an apartment. They both suggested that I visit Housing Hotline and Jimmy Winters. Jimmy Winters? Why do I know that name? Ah, the documentary I read about while researching at the State House. The police officer who is a huge advocate for the homeless!

The lady took her leave as her bus had arrived. So, I asked the Window Man if he could introduce me to Mr. Winters. He said, “Sure! He’s on duty right now but we are sure to cross his path.”

We boarded the trolley and headed for the police station. The Window Man showed me where the Housing Hotline office was located just around the corner, and off I went. I perused the various flyers donning the windows for a number that I could call. That’s when I saw it. They are showing the You Can Make a Difference documentary TODAY at 7:00 pm with a talkback afterwards with the producers! Surely, Mr. Winters is bound to be there. I am going. Screw curfew. I will call them and tell them I will be back at the shelter at 11 pm or so due to a community meeting.

I am sooooo being led! When the Window Man and the other lady heard that I was in a Providence shelter, they were appalled. In near unison they exclaimed, “Please don’t tell me you’re at [shelter name]!” The lady went on and on about the drugs there—using and dealing. “How can you stay at that place? How can you stand it?”

Yes, I knew God put me in this situation to help and make a difference. I never would have done this willingly—gone so far ‘undercover’ this willingly. I just have to be strong. I am fulfilling my purpose. I am quickly becoming aware of the issues.

Opportunity to Celebrate

Obviously, we should all celebrate the roof over our heads and the nourishment we receive no matter how it is viewed by economic or social standards. Yet, how can you "celebrate" blessings if you are homeless, hungry, unemployed, and cannot provide for your family? How, as a citizen or community leader, have you honored the value in all individuals regardless of their economic status or living situation? I celebrate by giving praise to God for providing for my needs and then share that praise with others as I do with this blog.

Share your story on our official Sights n Sounds Blog.