SR sits on the corner as people pass by, wishing them to “have a blessed day!” She is a people watcher and prays for all the individuals she meets each day as they pass by her. She loves being outside and praying for others.
SR is in her 50’s and is part Cherokee Indian. She has been on the streets for a good portion of her life. She is content sitting out on her block as cars pass by, talking to those who have come to know her; however, she would like to have a roof over her head. She has been living out of her car. She has been introduced to different programs in the past, but has a huge distrust for them.
It took her quite a while to warm up to us. The first few times we talked with her, she would ask us questions, but could not figure out what our intentions were. There had to be some catch. I would bring her food from a food pantry I worked with and unlike the response from others who would take it, she would ask what was in the bag. She explained that there were certain foods she could not eat, so wanted to make sure they were not in the bag. We got to know the types of food she likes, and started putting that in the bag. She would give us a big smile when she realized what we brought her!
When I first meet with someone, we exchange phone numbers. This is so that I can keep in touch with them and so that they can call me if they need something. SR gave me her phone number. I called one day to check on her and there was no answer. I sent a text, and no reply. I assumed I wrote the number down wrong. One day on our visit, she asked for help with her car. I told her I had a contact in my phone with someone who could help and I would text it to her. As we were leaving to visit others, she chased me down and said “let me give you my real number.” I was excited as to me, that was a sign that she finally trusted us!
We have exchanged several phone calls and texts since then. There have been times that I have not been able to stop by on a Saturday to visit her. She sends me a text saying “Just checking in Sis. How are you? I missed seeing you.” When I visit her the next time, she tells me how she looks forward to seeing us each Saturday and misses us when we don’t come. That really warms my heart!
I started bringing a chair with me as I walk around visiting folks. I fold out the chair and sit with them – on their level, having a conversation, asking them how their week went. It’s through these conversations that we get to know them better and at times, have opportunities to help them. All of the individuals we visit with have said the same thing. It’s the companionship, the sense of community, just having someone to talk to, that means the world to them – much more than food, clothes, or money!
SR has a temporary place to stay, a bed to sleep on and can take a shower. I’m looking forward to the day she has her own place and can come and go as she pleases, sharing her smile and continuing to bless others as they pass by her!