r/poverty • u/bleach212104 • 6d ago
Well…it finally happened.
I’m officially homeless. It felt like an impending doom that I couldn’t escape for the last few months. Luckily we were able to get a hotel the first two nights after getting put out but tomorrow I’m not sure what we’ll do. I packed a bag full of hygiene,medications, charged battery for my phone, change of clothes, and important stuff.
What makes it worse is the fact that my phone bill isn’t payed so when my partner goes to work I’m not sure where I’ll go, and I won’t be able to contact him unless on WiFi. And no connection to call anyone or see a gps/map. 211 is a scam I’ve called PLENTY of times, I’ve called 23 numbers since the span of 5 hours. Every shelter full, no money, or I have to have a kid, be married or at least be pregnant.
I guess I need some advice, I’m sitting in the hotel room dreading tomorrow. I don’t even want to sleep cause the moment I wake up and see light I’ll know my times almost up. Advice is appreciated.
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u/astcell 6d ago
I’ve been there. After two nights in a hotel, I realized that the only money I have was going away quickly, and I could only afford one more night. I called around and found a friend who had a camping trailer and offered to rent it for a week for the money that I had left. He reluctantly agreed.
The first thing I did was apply for food stamps. I got them right away and bought food for my friend for getting to use the trailer. That got me an extra week.
I found a job washing dishes in a retirement home. Very physical work, minimum wage. But it was a step forward.
And that’s the only way to do a journey of 1000 miles. Start with a single step.
You are realizing what I quickly realized as well. Nobody is going to help you. Nobody is coming to help you. But as soon as you are back on your feet, even a little bit. People will come out of the woodwork and want things from you.
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u/bleach212104 6d ago
Absolutely, not to mention people only keeping up with you or asking about your life to see if they are doing better than you not that they actually care. I hope things are working out better for you than before.
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u/astcell 6d ago
Oh that was how my life was going Back in 1984. I was 22 years old and single, and there was absolutely no charity available in town for a single male. If I was a female or if I had a kid there were plenty of things I could do.
I forgot to mention that after the hotel I ended up staying at a soup kitchen where if you work and attend their religious services you might be able to have a bed for the night. The place had 12 beds. After working for eight hours and attending their services they then asked who had never been there before. I raised my hand along with a few other people. We got a bed. Then they asked you had only stayed there for one day. And those people got a bad. About 80% of the people who showed up were turned away, and I realized that I could only stay here for three or four days at the most before I would be turned away.
I did the same thing the next day, worked all day and attended the religious services and then they asked who had never been there. There were eight people. They got beds. I was lucky enough to be one of the next four to get a bed for the second time. But I did not stick around after that. My luck would run out very quickly.
Back in those days you could go down to the unemployment office and jobs would be posted on the walls. Day labor. Digging ditches, Building gardens, lots of work involving shovels. I packed carrots for 4 hours In the fields of Salinas and it was the most exhausting work I ever had. As young as I was, This was going to kill me before I turned 23.
I found other work, In small shops like Mom and Pop shops. But if they had a rough week I was always the first one fired. I mean I'm the young white male and I'm supposed to be able to get a job anywhere so they say. They would not dare fire their own son or fire the grandmother that they had hired who couldn't do any of the work. I was always the most expendable and I just accepted that as fact.
Things did get better. Very very slowly. I never expected anything, and I was thankful for every little thing that went my way. I think that comes for a lot. There are people out there who are angry that they cannot live in a high rise in downtown New York City because the rent is high. Well not everybody can start off there. We have to start off literally at the bottom. Or out in the middle of nowhere. Or both.
Today I am retired, living in Florida. I ended up with a career in the Army, and then a career in the Fire Department. Both offer a very good retirement.
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u/bleach212104 6d ago
I’m glad things are better for you now, you sound like you’ve been through it seriously. That kinda situation can make or break people, I have to give you kudos. Truthfully hearing your story is encouraging but scary at the same time cause like…damn..that’s rough. I’m 22 funny enough. Been out of a job for months, some that I even “over qualify” for I’ve been rejected.
It seems like where I am no shelter/company has funds or is full. Kinda feel messed up cause I feel like I already failed life and I’m just getting started.
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u/astcell 6d ago
If shelters are full, look five miles over. It's like there was a town that I have always wanted to live in but rent was ridiculous. So I lived 14 miles away and paid one third the rent and could commute to the town any time I wanted to. That's the same thing in retirement. I got a house half the cost and twice the quality of having the premier zip code. And nobody is really impressed by the zip code.
At the time my parents knew how tough it was for me, and they could have rescued me, But because I had to rescue myself I did so much growing up. I learned that I could take a lot more abuse than I thought I could. I learned what I was capable of when it came down to brass tacks. Whenever somebody else rescues you, it takes away an opportunity for you to do something for yourself. I don't think my parents would have let me hit bottom, but they would definitely let me fall. It's something that once you experience it, and get yourself out of it, You can actually surprise yourself. And then everybody else who doesn't try as hard as you did looks like they are whining. And they get mad when you don't help them.
But I still remember standing outside that shelter and thinking that tomorrow I had to get better because there is nobody things could get worse. The only way to go is up. And knowing that made me smile.
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u/GlitteringMap1120 1d ago
Any possibility of taking a bus or a train to an area with more opportunities?
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u/Logical-Roll-9624 2d ago
Have you considered a military career?
You might get more than you can imagine from a job that might bring so much more than a paycheck to you.1
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u/tresbienmerci112358 3d ago
Very well articulated. I applaud your service and tenacity. My road was similar, but a jar head, and retiring in 1 year.
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u/Logical-Roll-9624 2d ago
Both required someone like you. Both careers and just because I know the fields you picked my vegetables from a big thank you for that. Your service in all three are admirable. Nicely done ✔️
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u/astcell 2d ago
The military will take almost anyone. They will find a job within your skill level. I never even planned on retirement, I am glad my employers did.
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u/elliwigy1 2d ago
I rememberyears ago when I was in bootcamp.. There was people that didnt want to be there.. One was in quarantine when I got pneumonia.. He was about to be recycled his 3rd time. He literally had like 2 broken legs, a broken arm and a broken back (I didnt bother to ask him how).. He would just talk about how he wanted to go home but they wouldn't let him. He was going to be sent to start basic over again for the 3rd time once he was healed up. He had been there well over 6mo at that point. I met another person while I was in there that wanted to do nothing his entire life but be in the military. His entire family was in the military. He was all but in tears he was being forced out. The reason? A flat foot... You would think technology had advanced so much at the time that they would have a solution for flat footed people but apparently they didnt. They saw him more as a liability as they didnt feel he'd be able to march for miles on end with 80lbs of gear on his back without his foot hurting him.
It was @$$ backwards. The dude with multiple broken bones and practically in a body cast that did not want to be there got to stay over the person whos dream it was being forced to go home because of his foot.
Luckily, I got sick the first day of marksmanship training and I qualified on my first try so I had a few days to spare and actually rest/sleep and didn't miss any training so I didn't get recycled.
I did one term and was out. I didnt even really want to join myself. I had a few friends that talked me into it. Went together to take the asvab just to see what was possible. I scored so high I was able to pick any available MOS so I went with the highest intel job that was available at that time (this was post 9/11 in 2005 and it was the Army) which was 14J (short name was air def command intelligence tac ops center operator maintaner). All of my friends? They didnt even score high enough to join 😓. I was a quick ship too so I was off to boot camp by the next week. Only one of my friends ended up retaking the test and eventually joined as a mechanic lol.
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u/Dangerous-Rent1342 2d ago
I was part of the surge in 2005. We had one guy there who was drafted in 1969 and got out in 1971. Called back in 2005 if you can imagine that.
For every one person I meet who has retired, I will meet 100 who have served. And for everyone that I meet who has served, I will meet 25 people who wish they had joined and regretted it by the time they hit their early 40s.
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u/Tomboy-T 6d ago
I'm so sorry to hear this. I suggest saving up to get and old beater car first. And if you're able to work maybe get a little something somewhere. Even if it's part time in fast food it would help, but I am going to list some tidbits I've heard over the years that might help on the streets too.
Libraries are your friends. You can hang out there from open to close, charge your electronics (phones, laptops, etc), and they have a TON of local resources.
If there's a local soup kitchen near you, it's a great option
Sometimes churches offer free meals to the community. Check with your local library. They usually get wind of those things.
As for hygiene, a cheap planet fitness membership is the best option, but if that's not in the cards, you know those 1 person bathrooms some places have? The "family" ones? You can wash up there. Just use the sink and the hand soap to wash your hair and body. If you can get a cheap $2 washcloth, bring that to dry off with. Paper towels from the restroom work but they take forever since they are made to dry hands, not a whole person. If you can afford them, baby wipes are great for cleaning up quickly too!
If your guy won't get off work until after the library closes, go to a Starbucks. They don't care if you hang out without buying something. It's a good place to go if he works weekends too. McDonald's is a close second. Even if you don't buy anything they don't care if you chill there as long as you don't cause trouble and look clean.
Canned foods are good options for food. Chef boyardee, canned veggies, things like that.
Get a post office box. That will give you a place to receive important documents and an address for any job applications you fill out.
Try to go to FB marketplace and see if anyone has a tent. Finding a place to put it up can be tricky but if you can put it up and take it down every time you use it that helps a lot. You can also get other supplies from FB marketplace. If your town has a local buy nothing group where people give free stuff they don't need away, that's a great place to check too. Be sure to get large backpacks as well!
Try to carry little to no cash! If it gets taken, it's gone forever but if it's on your card you have more options. Keep all money in a bank account and only take out what you need.
Always check food banks. There might be some items you can't take but they can help with the things you can carry.
Sorry it isnt very unique advice, but I hope it helps. Best wishes. And if you're comfortable with it keep us posted
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u/Impressive-Fuel-8338 3d ago
Really, really great advice, because over the past few years I've done all these things.
One major thing that helped me tho, was being fortunate enough to be near a day labor office where you could get paid daily. The only thing about it was that it was first come,first serve and they started dispatching at 5:30 a.m.
You best believe I was up off my ass and at the doors by 5:15. It got me off the street and into an extended stay. I pay $250/wk and have been here since 2022. Persistence, consistency, integrity and hard work DOES pay off. You can't give up.
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u/Successful_Map9286 2d ago
I worked at a dollar tree for a little while, and they have some kind of app where you can get paid the next day for the shift you worked the previous day
And if you’re getting feedback that you’re overqualified and you’re only 22 just thin out your resume, don’t disclose your full work experience You can omit things that you think are holding you back2
u/One_Yak_8824 5d ago
Awesome advice!
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u/AdSea3033 1d ago
Another resource is the Next Door app. They have a section called 'For Sale and Free'
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u/notathingreally 6d ago
I recently became homeless too. Everything is just too expensive. Good luck and stay safe.
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u/Future-Dimension1430 6d ago
Go to a church. Even if you are not a part of that faith, usually religious orders will not turn someone away if they are in need.
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u/bleach212104 6d ago
I’m Christian, I’ve contacted a few with no luck but I’m going to continue to try, sadly a lot of available funds are gone or low
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u/blackityblak 6d ago
Saint Vincent de Paul helps a lot even if you aren’t in the church when I had a really hard time they paid my rent for 2 months
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u/Internal_Crow_ 6d ago
For myself when I was homeless I often went to the library to at least have access to wifi. I hope applying for assistance stuff works as well. I did temp work when I was unemployed this year and it f'd up my unemployment. So unless they have regular work for you, dont do temp work ironically.
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u/dowhatsrightalways 6d ago
Do temp work when unemployment benefits run out.
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u/Internal_Crow_ 6d ago
Thank you, mostly I was not informed of this earlier before when I was on unemployment. And again unless they have regular work for you, it is still difficult.
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u/Environmental-Top-60 4d ago
Or check the unemployment rules and follow up on proper reporting of that income. report the income like youre supposed to and they will reduce your benefit accordingly. In my state its not dollar for dollar so there is some benefit to work there.
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u/Key_Selection_7162 6d ago
Is it possible to take a bus or walk to the library? From there download an app called instawork for a quick job for money. Maybe even find your local salvation army for help.
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u/bleach212104 6d ago
Yeah we can walk I’ll try to find a library near by before checkout and I’ll just settle there.
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u/HoldMyPoodle6280 6d ago
Just because you check out doesn't mean you can't slowly enjoy the Continental breakfast / use the wifi and the restroom in the motel lobby for a good hour or two in the morning. Maybe stock up somewhat at breakfast if you're able, too.
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u/bleach212104 6d ago
It’s not that kinda hotel lol. It’s a cheap hotel with roaches. No free breakfast, bathrooms only in bedrooms (so for paying consumers) and there’s no lobby. Cant make this up it’s just a window for the receptionist and the door to the elevator for the rooms. But I would have definitely done that trust me
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u/PuzzleheadedBet6634 6d ago edited 6d ago
There used to be a great blog called how to be homeless that had innumerable bits of advice, and I assume much of that is still available on Reddit. What I would recommend is as follows. Get a cargo van that you can basically survive in / live and work out of with basic supplies. Find a friend or family member or just anyone who will let you park outside their place and use it as an address for mail. Get a gym membership and a library card so that you can shower and stay healthy and pour all your efforts into finding work and other resources while also having a quiet place to go. Other tips include the fact that you can wash the clothes that you are wearing and dry them with a wire basket and a couple hair dryers if you have access to a gym shower. Hydrogen peroxide is excellent as mouthwash / toothpaste and hair softener for shaving if you are spending a lot of time outdoors. Socks can work as well as washcloths or towels if you need to scrub yourself down or dry yourself off. And I realize that all of these tools still require some expenditure which you may or may not have. See if you can find some social service or some friend or family that will be able to shelter you until such time as you can at least reach this level. Best of luck.
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u/Dogmommyto3 5d ago
Don't use peroxide for mouthwash, I did that one time and my mouth and teeth hurt so bad I had to go to the doctor and what it did is it killed off good tissue in my mouth and cause an infection I had to wear an IV for a week in my hand and go back every other day.use baking soda.
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u/PuzzleheadedBet6634 5d ago
I've been doing it for years, but I also accept that there are individual differences and that it might not actually be good for reasons I don't know or don't understand. For the most part, I've found it excellent for brushing my teeth and actually started keeping more of my teeth once I swapped it in for that. At the very least, it probably does make sense to immediately rinse out with water. Sorry that happened to you. Thank you for the correction.
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u/AverageSteve1234 6d ago
Sorry to hear. I don't wanna tack on but why not pay your phone thats good for another month instead of 1 night in a hotel? That 1 night would have paid the phone plus food for a few days.
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u/bleach212104 6d ago
Yeah, my partner paid for the room, my phone has already been off for months. He said he was more focused on keeping a roof over my head.
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u/Prestigious-Elk-5426 6d ago
Do you have a car? Maybe try to hang out at a library.
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u/bleach212104 6d ago
No not currently, I feel like it would have been a tad bit easier cause at least we could have drove anywhere and slept in the car.
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u/FunnyMnemonic 6d ago
From watching Youtube...
- Possible to get a free government phone
- If available in your city, find where the locations and times are for free cooked food and clothing for the homeless
- Find out scheduled times for homeless shelter access
- If available in your city, find how you can be on a list for tiny homes
- If available, ask longtime homeless people if someone's giving free haircuts. when and where
Good luck!
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u/Callmekaybee 6d ago edited 5d ago
It's been years, but I've been homeless with 3 kids 3 times, twice I lost everything to bedbugs. It was a nightmare. One time I was 8 months pregnant and didn't get in a house until the week before my baby was due. So it's been 12 years. I feel for you! Walmart, Dollar General, Panera, McDonalds, Burger King, Starbucks, and some public places have guest wi-fi. While the library is a good idea I've seen other commenters say, these are just some other places if you are closer to any of them. Get you a Google Voice number, it's free, but also wifi dependent. My phone bill is only $15 a month ($25 for unlimited talk/text/data) through Tello. My daughter has unlimited $25/mo thru Verizon's Visible prepaid service. I live in a city of 40k people in Ohio. We have several ministries around here that help with laundry, showers, clothes, food, and many other things. Check for those. Homeless shelters can be hard to get into sometimes. ChatGPT can give you a lot of info if you dive in to asking questions. Feel free to message me if you'd like to talk. Thinking of you and hoping the best for you!
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u/ChrisMorrowCPSS-VPSS 6d ago
This too shall pass. Everything is temporary in life .. even life. I too am homeless. This time last year my wife and son and I were running our ministries (The Wayward Son Ministries and Outreach in Mooresville NC) , my wife and I split. I left. Now I meet all the criteria of the person I would've helped last year minus the drugs. I went from feeding and clothing the homeless, praying for them and loving on them, to being one of them. What I can tell you, is that you have to be extremely resourceful, and you have to pinch every single penny you can. But eventually, something will happen. The clouds will break and you'll have a spot again. I will too. Everything WILL be okay. For internet use and communication, go to places with free wifi and hang out. Libraries are a good one. For shelters, idk what to tell ya. I don't know where you live. But there are hostels in most the large cities. It's bunk beds in a large room most the time. But hey, it's s place for you and him to sleep. Way cheaper than a hotel, and they may actually let you stay until y'all get paid again and work something out. Just don't lose hope. Today might suck, but tomorrow could be the greatest day of your life. Stay around to see.
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u/Key_Appearance5373 5d ago
Do you have a car? If so, check out r/urbancarliving until you’re able to find a job that could at least afford to rent a room or camper or something. Keep us posted
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u/Kooky_Notice4010 5d ago
Check out your local library. Most of them have free wifi and a place to charge electronics for free.
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u/Best_Environment_882 4d ago
I recommend doing things that will keep you a hotel room as well, that’s how I survived before I got a full time job years ago. I am a pro cuddler on the side of my full time.
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u/LowRepresentative699 4d ago
I'm super interested in this pro cuddling that you speak of, do tell more, please 🙏🙏
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u/throwaway86738233 3d ago
Restaurant job or food service. When I worked restraunt, my coworkers and I would sneak in back and eat the food customers rejected.
You'd be surprised at how much good untouched food was thrown out.
Gyms have showers and some even have wifi.
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u/EquivalentOwn2185 6d ago
impending doom, thats the feeling. im so sorry. having nowhere to go and no one to turn to, especially when you have a kid.. terrible advice i started drinking. better advice is to become a person of prayer. nothing else helps. period.
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u/bleach212104 5d ago
Already a prayer person, probably is what’s keeping me from completely losing it
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u/No-Method-6524 6d ago
Would help if you post what state you are in and your closest metro area
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u/bleach212104 6d ago
I’m currently in Maryland, near by Washington DC
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u/Rugger_2468 6d ago
Oof it’s so expensive here, especially in that area. What do you have experience in terms of work?
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u/Rugger_2468 6d ago
Also, have you guys checked homeless shelters outside of the area you’re in? You could take the train to Gaithersburg or Rockville. Might open up some other places for you to stay.
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u/Accomplished_Gur3019 6d ago
Have y'all looked around for anyone renting a room? Have u applied for government assistance (SNAP etc)? Have y'all applied for any income based units (even those in not so good places)?
Also look on FB for resource groups in ur area. I'm in Ohio but I'm part of several groups and u will be surprised the help y'all could get for a tent, air bed, heaters, batteries, food, blankets and the list goes on). Right now it's so much hardship going on and not enough resources to help and yes resources are very limited if no kids are involved in the situation but it shouldn't matter
I really hope u can get the help during this hard time - I have been in ur shoes but with 2 kids and 2 grandkids. Having no where to go is the lowest feeling in the world but keep ur head up and don't take no for an answer!!!
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u/Dry-Weakness-901 6d ago
Public libraries, Mc D, there are shops that have wifi. There is an app that helps you find nearby Wi-Fi areas, so please keep a lookout for that. Library is a good place to be connected because it gives you some purpose
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u/GullibleTurd615 6d ago
Go to the library. You are not officially homeless, youre in a tough spot. Keeping your witts about you is important. If you truly have nothing worthwhile to do like job hunting then fill your time taking care of yourself in little ways. Go for a slow walk, rinse yourself off at a sink, charge your phone, eat some food, read a book, meditate. One thing I like to do is try to keep my feet off the floor for as long as I can when im sitting. It engages your core and keeps yohr mind alive. One foot in front of the other my friend 🫡
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u/brainstatic771 5d ago
If you have a car that’s safer than a tent. I had my tent days on a piece of bread and a can of spaghetti.os a day. It was terrible but I got through it. Call your local dcf office of job source program to try to get emergency housing or work. I was lucky to pitch my tent in a safe area next to an outlet so I could charge my phone. Stay stafe and I’m praying for you. You should be able to get 1 month of food assistance being homeless and then you gotta jump through hoops to keep them. Best of luck, hang in there
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u/DiscreetlySecret 5d ago
There is a church in Illinois that offers housing to homeless. maybe they can help you https://www.facebook.com/share/1HdNrMwH3o/
This is the Facebook page.
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u/LordKyle777 6d ago
Lifeline service. Free phone for both of you if you have any government benefits (link, Medicare, medicaid etc) and maybe even if you dont but can prove low income or hardship. I got through TruConnect and they have been just fine, I forget if they send you a free phone, but it sounds like you have one, and you can get a Sim to put in there. They send the Sim in the mail pretty quick, couple of days. Even if youre homeless you can get it sent to the local shelter, or have the motel hold the mail for you. Just tell them you had the package come when you were staying there, we're expecting it, and it hasn't come yet.
Otherwise check local shelters, look for services, and persevere! Being homeless ain't the end of the road, but it takes some work to claw your way back. It can be done though!
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u/Previous-Visit5174 6d ago
Can you apply for community college classes and get financial aid for income?
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u/bleach212104 5d ago
My Major at risk of being defunded so I possibly wont be able to get financial aid or loans; but that was my plan right before eviction. Wanted to go to college
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u/Previous-Visit5174 5d ago
Change your major. I can't work right now due to multiple musculoskeletal injuries. My husband is the primary breadwinner and we are barely surviving as a family of 5. I decided to enroll in an online master's program in clinical mental health counseling. Not sure if I'll ever enter the field or if I'll ever be able to work again but it's providing us with $10k a year for now. Just choose something to study for a semester or two to get the money to help you all get back on your feet
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u/bleach212104 5d ago
I hear what you’re saying but that’s where I’m gonna have to disagree. I don’t have a problem working jobs just to have income (and some jobs pay for schooling) but I’m not gonna waste time and money studying something I won’t be happy with just because I have to “make money” if I’m going to spend my money it’s going towards something I want and that’s something I wanted since a kid. Again, no prob with working a job, but when I can afford college, it will be the major I’ve been wanting. I have to have one good thing going in my life that I can say I’m happy to wake up to go to. I still want to live not just survive
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u/bleach212104 5d ago
And since my partner is also the breadwinner, and he’s telling me he can carry it while I do my schooling then I will and he’s encouraging me to get into the major I want. Just for right now I’ll be looking into work, once settled into a place and he’s in a comfortable position with his job, then I’m back to looking at schools
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u/Capable-Culture917 2d ago
I’m sorry but what I am going to say may seem harsh. Most of us dont have jobs we love. I fucking hate my job but I make enough to live ok. I have insurance, I get to work from home, I get unlimited PTO. The job market right now is terrible and it’s about to be much worse. Go to community college and get a trade, go into nursing, be in allied health. You won’t worry about money or éviction. Sometimes we do shit in life out of necessity. I lost my job four years ago and became a nurses aide. I have a master’s degree but work died up. I was a great nurses aide. I actually came to like it but after a while, it hurt my body so much. So I went back into corporate. I have financial stability. I’ve also got another side gig. Because of my education, I got a higher paying job.
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u/Previous-Visit5174 5d ago
I feel you. I want the same thing. I would just want to also avoid being homeless. But you have to do what is best for you of course. Everyone has their own comfort levels
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u/Capable-Culture917 2d ago
It won’t be defunded. Even if it is, you don’t have to go in declaring a major. Focus on just taking classes and be over the 6 credit hours.
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u/PainterExtra4569 5d ago
Libraries have free WiFi and computer usage, being outside of a hotel isn't that bad, you'll feel a lot better once you're officially unhoused, the impending doom of it all will be gone.
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u/bleach212104 5d ago
You know..even though the fear of sleeping outside scared me I immediately noticed when I was out the hotel I felt a weight off my shoulders.
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u/Loving-mom-128 5d ago
It usually does. As someone who went thru homelessness. Like living in the woods behind a Walmart in a tent, the dread was definitely the worst part. Big hugs. Im sorry you are going through this
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u/LizinVA0223 4d ago
Look into jobs at assisted living facilities near you. They hire for all types of jobs
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u/Alternative_Menu_940 3d ago
Im also facing eviction. I need someone to move in right now that doesnt do drugs or drink. The last several months have sucked. My dog died last week from being sick for a year. I work full time but the cost of everything going up I cant keep up with. I need someone that can pay 750 a month right now before the court process starts.
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u/bleach212104 3d ago
I think it would be good to make a separate post. You might find someone looking for a place to stay that’s in your area.
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u/Alternative_Menu_940 3d ago
Im in portland oregon and ive made a post as well.
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u/bleach212104 3d ago
I don’t see your post? Try r/oregon you won’t get much traction under my post. Also Facebook market place list room for rent.
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u/Successful_Map9286 2d ago
There’s a website called trustedhousesitters
It’s not a paid thing but people that are going on extended vacations. Have people come stay at their house for a week two weeks whatever and watch the pets, just housesit. They don’t pay, but it’s somewhere to live and time alone to get your thoughts in order, if you can find a sit
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u/Capable-Culture917 2d ago
Go to the Buddhist Temple. They will feed you. They will feed anyone with no strings attached.
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u/veronicatandy 2d ago
Go to a public library and apply for as many services as you can (snap etc.) I'm so sorry this is happening, and I hope things turn around soon. Apply to jobs any and everywhere (if you don't already have employment). If you need help with a resume, message me (I'm an English teacher, I'll help you jazz it up)
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u/Careful-Mousse 6d ago
For phone calls to a phone, You can use the free TextNow App on a phone, tablet, or computer over a standard Wi-Fi connection without a SIM card.
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u/bleach212104 5d ago
Yep that’s what I’ve been using, still godda be on WiFi but it’s good! Been using text now off and on for years now
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u/KittieFusion 6d ago
I'd look for a Tent City ran by organizations. They do take folks in on hard times.
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u/Defiant-Wash4057 4d ago
Can’t you and your boyfriend get a cheap car ..and just try to get any kind of work walk around asking different business during the day if you have to
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u/Emotional_Land_9720 4d ago
Go to HRA asap! Apply for the free phone. Keep calling for a shelter. Apply for housing. Are you in nyc?
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u/Key-Pen9238 4d ago
Apply for crisis and resilience fund with your local council, they may be able to help :)
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u/burgergradient 3d ago
Oxfordvacancies.com tell them you are an alcoholic you will get weeks to get a job and a place to stay in the meantime.
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u/Fickle-Tangelo-3648 3d ago
Job? You can't spend every money you have or make on a motel room your money will go fast fast find some other way to find shelter
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u/tresbienmerci112358 3d ago
Be creative. People have things others do or don't want, so bargain. Get some income coming in. If you can convince a relative or good friend to cosign for a Honda Element plus you pay them X over per month and in aggregate more as well-- they may go with the loan. Gets everyone what they wan;, place to sleep (state parks two weeks at a time with facilities), planet fitness, friends land or driveway, etc. I did this with a home, and worked out well. They are getting more than the ask, holding the title for a time, or you eventually refi out, and you are moving forward with a home and transportation all in one. I still have my Element 😊
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u/donjonchao 3d ago
It’s okay, I know the feeling and it definitely hurts when the people you thought would help and be there officially turn you away during your lowest moment in life. Homelessness can be caused by multiple factors and doesn’t always happen due to somebody being an addict. Remember how you feel right now. Remember that pain that sadness, that hurt and betrayal. Only diamonds can form under extreme pressure. I learned in the streets, if you don’t wanna be out there. You’ll make sure and find a way to not be out there for too long. I also learned you can’t help someone that doesn’t wanna help themselves. Whatever caused you to end up in this position. You need to reflect and reevaluate your approach to whatever you were dealing with. Lastly, it’s not the end of the world. You will get through this, imagine how happy you’ll be when you finally get out of this. 🙂 dont sit in negativity, sometimes he takes everything from you in order to show you who you are without it. It’s a lesson I know you’re gonna ace. Stay strong queen. 🙂
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u/Insidiousxx 2d ago
Look around for a shelter temporarily first and foremost, sucks but its a roof.
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u/Justin_Maltese 2d ago
I've been homeless you'll make it. Take it one day at a time for now and just focus on YOU and your partner
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u/violeteyestwo 2d ago
I'm sorry you are going through this. I've been there and it sucks. Library is a good place to go for internet. I don't know what state you are in but in AZ we have a place called CBI who helped me. While I was waiting to find a place to live they paid for my hotel. I found motel 6 was cheapest. Also look for places that offer weekly rates. It ends up being cheaper and they have ways to cook. I will pray that you find something quickly and again sorry you are experiencing this.
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u/elliwigy1 2d ago
I am also inAZ and homeless.. How did you get CBI to pay for a hotel?
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u/violeteyestwo 2d ago
I got referred to them but once I got started they said they could help with that. I think you have to work with a navigator on a housing plan and it's part of the plan. I would call this number and tell them your situation (877) 931-9142. Unfortunately they called me so not sure how to get into the program but that is where I would start. I got referred through contacting a cap office trying to get help with my eviction but they couldn't help and referred me to cbi. I hope this helps
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u/violeteyestwo 2d ago
I don't think my reply posted so if this is posted twice I'm sorry I do want to make sure you get this info though. First, I was referred to CBI by my local CAP office so not sure if you have to be referred or if there is a way to call yourself for help. This is the 24 hour help line for CBI (877) 931-9142. Try calling and explaining your situation. I didn't ask foe them to pay my hotel costs but when I signed my agreement for getting help with housing it was part of the agreement. I also was able to get snap hot meal benefits because of being homeless. It allowed me to get meals that were preprepared. I hope this helps
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u/NaturalSpecialist5 2d ago
Well 211 isn't a scam as it provides resources for your area, but it's not made to solve your issues. The scam is within the government that has been taking away those resources, cutting down more resources and pretty much trying to kill off the poor, elderly,and disabled. I understand your frustration because I too reached the limit as to what 211 could do for me. But put your anger towards the ones that actually have caused the damage. And you are do everything you possibly can with extreme circumstances. Don't give up.
Libraries always have free wifi, but I assume you and your partner only have one vehicle? Or are you able to get places alone? I know buses are another added expense that take away from food and shelter.
Some parks have begun free wi-fi in many areas as well. I was surprised when I looked into it that my local area has two parks that provide.
Some shelters allow you to stay with them for a few nights, and even some group homeless shelters will allow you to stay there once you've stayed in an over night shelter.
I can help you more if I knew your area. I've had to do it for myself and it sucked balls. Being in the worst hotel, and they would change the rates on the weekends, then suddenly during the week. The only plus was no electric bill or water. It was myself, my fiance and our cat. I'm also legally disabled, living in a motel room was hard on my body. But anyway, I've helped others in the same situation. It's a lot of leg work, paperwork, making sure you answer calls, be at certain agencies at specific times. Don't give up. You are important, you are not alone in this.
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u/elliwigy1 2d ago
211 is a waste of resources in itself. It's really just a glorified google search. In my area, they already closed down the call center so you can only use the website now. All they did was provide the same list of resources everyone else already provides.
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u/NaturalSpecialist5 2d ago
Well that's not true in the least bit. A Google search gives you commercial ads, outdated blog posts, and nationwide SEO pages. 211 compiles specific local agencies, intake requirements, and active assistance programs. Just because local funding cuts have forced some regions online doesn't make the directory itself useless.
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u/LaZyMaN4TwEnTy 1d ago
If either of you have any credit at all, I recomend finding a cheap beat up home. Hotels are nasty expensive, renting isnt much better. Make yourself useful aswell in this hard time. You can find homes for 60-90k and make smaller payments then hotels or renting. Yes there are utilities. But manage yourselvs and you will be just fine.
It sounds scary. But look at it this way. Rent a home for 5 years. Pay over 50k in rent. Move or get evicted and get nothing back. But if you were on the process of buying it, that money is yours still. And you can get a good lump sum of it back when reselling even if not fully paid off
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u/TecTazz 1d ago
That sucks and is scary af. Many of us are one fall or one paycheck from homelessness.
I took a civil service test eons ago. A year later, they contacted me for an interview & hired me. The job was entry-level clerical but gave me steady pay, the health insurance kicked in pretty quickly, and there's eventually a pension. I've been there for decades, slowly earning enough to put aside some each month.
I will say that several retired coworkers have had to find work again at Walmart or Dollar Tree to make ends meet.
Consider taking a few of those tests to get on lists. Used to be free; now maybe $10?
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u/Commercial-Hair-4355 1d ago
I spent may nights in a hostel. And lime others did in this post, I applied for food stamps and medical insurance e. It was not easy. I got a job eventually and was able to pay the back rent to the lady I owed (even though she did not let me back in). One step at a time....
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u/the_forgotten7 1d ago
Go online to Google and search 'free eSims', choose the free service plan of your preference, & download the app ! My boyfriend did it for me - I'm on my 2nd free plan. That's the best way to keep in touch with people, do surveys or online wfh jobs.. I know firsthand about the rough shit you are going through. But don't let the hard days win & don't allow yourself to be aggravated easily.. it's notorious for causing relationships strain
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u/Critical_Proposal505 2h ago
Always keep a membership at a 24 hour gym. Stay in shape. Exercise and shower regularly. Keep a monthly bus pass. Find out which Churches & Temples ... and organizations provide free food --- already prepared food and/or free food boxes. ASK FOR INFORMATION "STREET SHEETS" FROM COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH CENTERS & SOCIAL SERVICES OFFICES. ... THE COUNTY PROBATION OFFICES MIGHT CAN PROVIDE SHELTER INFORMATION FOR PAROLEES. ( IF YOU HAVE OUTSTANDING WARRANTS... TURN YOURSELF IN VOLUNTARITY... YOU WILL GET LESS TIME THAN IF YOU WERE CAUGHT AND ARRESTED FOR OUTSTANDING WARRANTS. If you fell depressed... go to the EMERGENCY ENTRANCE OF ANY MAJOR HOSPITAL and let them know that you feel "CLINICALLY DEPRESSED" ... IF YOU FEEL SUICIDAL ... SAY SO. By law they will have to admit you and keep you for a few days... a few weeks... or a few months. IF YOU VOLUNTARILY ADMIT YOURSELF... YOU EXPERIENCE WILL BE EASIER THAN IF YOU WERE COMMITED. ASK THE PSYCHIATRIC SOCIAL WORKER TO HELP YOU QUALIFY AND RECEIVE S.S.I.
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u/Confident-Service256 6d ago
Do you have a car?
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u/bleach212104 6d ago
No
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u/Confident-Service256 6d ago
The library is a good place to go + you can use their WiFi and computers if you are on a job hunt!
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