3 of 29

Write now Article Tools

Street people? Why do they call them that? Is that what they called me because I left an abusive relationship and had no where to stay. I lived in my car and parked it by the interstate at night because it was a rest area and it was safer there than anywhere because the police patrolled the area. It wasn't so bad because it wasn't cold yet and I felt safe. My kids were living with their dad and that wasn't too far so I would see them almost everyday. Most people think I'm crazy when I say this but sometimes it felt as if my only friends out there were the police. They knew I was living in my car and being a female that is thin with long, blond hair. Well. I think you get the idea. So I had to cut my hair because I didn't want any unneeded attention and when I could I would take a shower at my ex husband's house.

It was one of the worst times in my life. People stare at you and not because of how you look. Because you are parked there too long or at a gas station too much. What bothered me is I knew some homeless people from when I was a manager at a gas station and I never put them down. I know bad things happen to good people and it is rough when you don't have anyone to help you. I know this because I had no one and the state would not even give me food stamps. I had a mailing address so that wasn't it. They gave me no reason so I guess I won't eat. I survived thanks to my ex husband. The system works so well. Let me tell you from my experience it sucks to be out on the street. I wasn't a young girl either. I was around 39, suffering from depression and wanted to die. I couldn't afford all my medications so I only got one of them. If your homeless and living in your car it isn't easy to get a job. You are more of a risk to an employer than an asset. I was lucky enough to still have a couple of houses to clean from my business.

I have a college degree and had a successful business. I'm a good Christian woman who always helped others and worked hard since I was a little girl. I was a cosmetologist at 16 years old and worked full time while attending college full time. Now does that sound like a homeless or street person to you? I've met some really nice people out here. People are nicer because they have time to talk and they appreciate the little things in life like warm weather and something to eat. They are down to earth people who are not looking to get ahead by hurting someone. They only want to survive. I guess there are some naughty ones that

• 1
• 2
• next page >>

Add your voice

Know something about 'Street people' - Who are they??
We want to hear your view. Write now!