Stories of Strength
Meet Rickey, who alongside his significant other experienced unsheltered homelessness for three years while facing barriers, uncertainty, and challenges in finding permanent housing. Hear his story, in his own words, and learn how perseverance, determination, and the right support can create meaningful change.
“I would just say that I am grateful. I’m thankful. That’s what it is. I’m just really happy that this is the case”
Unsheltered Homelessness is defined as individuals and families who do not have a stable place to live. This includes living outside, in cars, tents, parks, sidewalks, or abandoned buildings. Many are unaware of the barriers, challenges, and difficulties of exiting unsheltered homelessness. Even the health and safety of individuals are limited and often compromised. For Rickey, safety has been compromised before- break-ins of his tent, damage and loss of supplies, loss of papers and forms of identification-creating a challenging system to navigate out of.
Individuals also face higher rates of chronic health conditions compared to the general public, with exposure to extreme hot and cold temperatures, lack of access to basic needs, and even the barrier of not having access to health care. One study reports that people living unsheltered have a mortality rate that is three times higher than those experiencing sheltered homelessness.
Rickey shares that not knowing where to safely sleep, place personal belongings, or shower were true stressors he faced, worsening his epilepsy. Having no access to health care leaves many without proper medical attention, especially accommodations, medications, and other assistance. Rickey has been housed for two years now and is able to manage his responsibilities, limit stressors, visit his doctor and have a routine, like feeding his cat Talula who he got with his significant other.