Bernard Dean, who often goes by the name Chino, was born and raised in New Jersey. He joined the Navy after high school and was a corpsman on the USS Camden in Washington State. When his Navy tour was done he spent a few years on the west coast, before eventually making his way back east and arriving in Washington D.C. in the spring of 2007. Chino likes D.C. for a lot of reasons, including the diversity of people, which reminds him of New Jersey and New York.
About three months ago he got a job in the kitchen at Brasserie Beck, where he is dishwasher manager (pit boss). He now has a place to live and likes the security that comes with regular employment.
Chino enjoys playing soccer and played in last year’s Homeless USA Cup Soccer Tournament, scoring nine goals throughout the tournament, including five goals in one game.
Favorite food?
Meatloaf.
Favorite movies?
Incredible Hulk, Bee Movie, Cars. Bee Movie was funny and it has a teaching pitch that’s good for kids.
Why do you sell Street Sense?
For extra money. The money I make selling Street Sense helps cover my transportation costs.
How long were you homeless?
About 8 months or maybe a year
