to one of our soup kitchen regulars. It's the underside of a roadway overpass. The individual who lives here is a Gulf War vet. He is one of the nicest people you could meet, but is very quiet and has such a vibe of sadness. I was talking to our custodian, Willie, about him. Willie is a fountain of information about people on the street - having been one himself a few years ago. Willie told me where Raymond stays/lives. I went and checked it out last week, and sure enough there were signs that this was Raymond's home. That bunk bed on drainage pipes broke my heart. I got in touch with the VA Homeless Services in our area to see what they can do in the way of assistance. The person I talked with was awesome and told me he would pass along the info to a caseworker who would attempt to make contact with Raymond. But due to the pandemic they were really bogged down with Covid related issues and protocol...it might be a while before there is any follow up. I get that. At least I know Raymond is on their radar, and I'll keep checking.
I know this isn't a pretty picture, but it's a picture of reality.
Three Good Things:
1. Mecklenburg County Veterans Administration's homeless services department
2. A follow up email from the VA acknowledging our conversation
3. People who care
A poignant capture. Years ago, my Sunday School class volunteered once a month at the homeless shelter in downtown Nashville. I learned so much about those who stayed there. I'll be sending good thoughts and prayers for Raymond - and God bless you in your efforts
Oh let’s hope they can help. So many of our service people end up in this situation - as a specialist organisation they will understand the need for mental health support as well.
You care Peggy!!
Just dreadful to think someone actually lives in these conditions in the middle of winter specially someone who has fought for their country. Ex servicemen here also soon drop through the cracks in society...it’s beyond belief isn’t it.I do hope Raymond gets a warm place to stay & even more that he accepts it.
@judithg@happypat That's the thing, Pat..,IF he accepts it. It could very well be that Raymond has absolutely no interest in being helped. I don't know. I just know that when I saw where he was living, I had no choice but to try to help. I couldn't not do anything after seeing that nest of blankets on drainage pipes under a bridge. Willie told me, 'He might not like being messed with. But could be he wants some help.' I hope it's the latter.
Just dreadful to think someone actually lives in these conditions in the middle of winter specially someone who has fought for their country. Ex servicemen here also soon drop through the cracks in society...it’s beyond belief isn’t it.I do hope Raymond gets a warm place to stay & even more that he accepts it.