What I'm Learning as a Homeless, Disabled Single Mom
"When I grow up, I want to be a homeless, disabled single mom" was a thought that never crossed my mind. Despite that, I am in that situation now. I am learning from my circumstances and fighting to change them.
Help For Niches - I have learned you need a specific niche to get help quickly. Being homeless and disabled and a single mom is not enough. However, there is housing available (and within a few days) for women with children who have been arrested for or convicted of prostitution. There is also housing programs for drug abusing moms and their children. Fortunately (or unfortunately, in my case), we do not qualify.
Slow Process - Being homeless, I have learned that getting housing is a slow process. The for low-income is months long. The Section 8 housing list in my area isn't going to be adding anyone new for over three years.
Rampant Discrimination - I've learned that disabled people are discriminated against. This is especially true if, like me, you have a service dog. Despite laws against such actions (inactions), organizations can twist those laws to keep helping. Or, they provide excuses as to why they can't help now. I am currently without my service dog because the places that "allow" (legally, they all have to allow service dogs) are full.
Random Acts - There are random acts of kindness among homeless people. Digging through bins of clothing, I'm amazed at how many times I hear "this might fit" or "your daughter might like this." They have very little, yet they are willing to share.
Being homeless isn't the end of the road for us. Just an ugly patch on life's road. We keep going, looking for a way out. I know a home is just around the corner for us.
Help For Niches - I have learned you need a specific niche to get help quickly. Being homeless and disabled and a single mom is not enough. However, there is housing available (and within a few days) for women with children who have been arrested for or convicted of prostitution. There is also housing programs for drug abusing moms and their children. Fortunately (or unfortunately, in my case), we do not qualify.
Slow Process - Being homeless, I have learned that getting housing is a slow process. The for low-income is months long. The Section 8 housing list in my area isn't going to be adding anyone new for over three years.
Rampant Discrimination - I've learned that disabled people are discriminated against. This is especially true if, like me, you have a service dog. Despite laws against such actions (inactions), organizations can twist those laws to keep helping. Or, they provide excuses as to why they can't help now. I am currently without my service dog because the places that "allow" (legally, they all have to allow service dogs) are full.
Random Acts - There are random acts of kindness among homeless people. Digging through bins of clothing, I'm amazed at how many times I hear "this might fit" or "your daughter might like this." They have very little, yet they are willing to share.
Being homeless isn't the end of the road for us. Just an ugly patch on life's road. We keep going, looking for a way out. I know a home is just around the corner for us.
Published by Emma Riley Sutton
My friends call me "The Queen of Useless Information." I have a B.A. in Public Relations and also in English. I am a stay-at-home homeschooling mom and a freelance writer. View profile
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22 Comments
Post a CommentEmma, I was there 6 years ago with 2 kids. I know the frustrations of finding a shelter that will take a service animal. I hope that this finds you in housing now, if not at least in a safe, warm place. By telling your story, you are bringing awareness to an issue that needs to be brought to light. Prayers for you and your daughter.....Lord please wrap Your arms around Emma and her daughter, let them feel Your Power and Strength, Amen!!!
Emma, my heart goes out to you along with loving (((hugs))) :o)
Coming back again from Lyn's link!
Just reading again! :D
Emma,
If you have access to the internet I highly recommend taking a look at www.povertyandhomelessness.com It is Lyn Lomasi's blog that has numerous resources, information, and help links for those affected by homelessness and poverty. I don't know how much I can help with getting a roof over your head, but I highly suggest turning to your local community church outreach, feeding america food bank (put your zipcode in on the website and they will send you to where you need to go), and try to go to your local women's club because they should be able to help you find housing for you and your daughter. My thoughts are with you. -Linda S.
great
Sharing and tweeting... Take care, Emma. :)
I know you will get through all this. You are an inspiration.
Emma, you're doing a great job keeping a positive attitude. I'm sharing this article. Best of luck getting it all together, my friend.
Sending you PV love! I hope things settle down soon.