The turning point for me, from staying in a shelter to being straight out in the streets was when I was paying $3 a night to stay at the Gospel Rescue Mission. I felt it was a bit classier than the other shelters and locations. Although none of the others charged any type of fee as far as I was aware of. It was downtown, a few blocks away from the main attraction of the Verizon Center, at the time, now known as the Capital One Arena. I felt it was a good place to be and I was in good company. I blended in with the good team atmosphere of the Mystics.
I ended up leaving due to increasing pressure to shower in a group shower of men. I wasn’t with it. Anyway, it all came to a head one night and I left! I would tend to be the last one up when he pressed the issue. As I left I saw a fella with brand new sneakers and a sheet covering his head and I thought he deserves my spot!
I should of had plenty of friends that would cover me but the fact remains it’s been solely the government and its programs, Street Sense and Second Story Cards as well as social security!
Thank GOD for the fortitude, inner might, guts, and strength! In the name of my brethren Jesus Christ, CESUZ Nice!
