Today's been an exhausting day, full of emotional turmoil, lots of promises, and finally some hope.
Before I continue though, I want to thank the DKos community for their efforts on my behalf and the emotional support you've given me through these tough times.
But, as we have the last two days, let's start with how the day went, and get going from there.
(Adventures in Homelessness on the flip)
After I logged off last night, I took the kids back to the Motel 6. Fortunately, the cost was only 90.76 last night, which helped a bit. Unfortunately, at some point yesterday my 12 year old daughter lost her MP3 player, which caused no end of distress. We made up for it by singing very loudly in the car. My kids tell me I sound much better when I sing ANGRY. Apparently it brings out a James Hetfield quality, mixed with a bit of Eddie Vedder. (Yes, I sing like an aging white guy, which I am.)
But the fact remained that we got into the hotel, sat back and made a few calls. Nothing panned out with the shelters, as they were still closed, but the attempt was made. Kids got a change of clothes, and overall was much more pleasant than the previous night. Ate at Walmart (I know, I'm sorry, but it was the closest store) for sandwiches, salads and drinks.
Did not get any sleep as I was agonizing about today. Made up for it this morning with free coffee at Motel 6. Kid's Morale was very low. From my military experience, I know that what loses a war is morale. As a result, Hot breakfast was called for. Nearest restaurant was a Denny's but desperate times call for desperate measures.
Wasn't terrible, but c'mon, it's freakin Denny's...
Arrived at VA clinic in Marina at 8:15. Waited in parking lot and called numerous shelters in area. Family shelter informed me that they do not take men with children, as that does not qualify as a family. (Shelter Outreach Plus for those keeping score.)Was referred to single men's shelter (IHELP). Was informed they do not take children, referred right back to family shelter.
Met VA counselor at 9. Checked comments online and Kosmail. For the first time got a glimmer of hope, when members of this community came forward to help me, and inform me that they were going to continue to help me. Very nice change from the response I got from official channels. VA representative of HUD-VASH informed me of sign up meeting on Thursday. No further aid, other than to refer me to VTC. (Veteran's Transition Center)
I've been working with these folks for upwards of 6 months. Arrived at 930 today. Previous Response had been poor, due to a combination of my folks sabotaging their efforts, and miscommunication. In addition, since I had a place to stay previously I was not considered a priority previously. Was informed that VTC would try to help me find shelter for tonight, and that I would not need to leave area. Was told to return at 230.
Went to VRC (Veteran's Resource Center.). Was informed their grant only provides aid to assist long term assistance and permanent housing for veterans. Emergency Shelter is not covered by their grant and as a result they could not help me.
At 230, VTC convened a board to put me on a waiting list for a program that aids Veterans in need. I felt like I was up in front of a goddamn promotion board again. Numerous questions about whether I drank (My last beer was July 4.) and my use of Medical Marijuana. Also questions about my willingness to participate in therapy. I may have blown my chance, but I was very adamant that any therapy I engaged in would be secondary to my caring for my children.
Was told they'd call me.
At approximately 4PM Got a call from Lupe at VTC, the first person who actually seemed to listen to what I have to say. She found me a motel in Seaside where I can stay for 2 weeks, since no shelters would take me. Immediately proposed marriage. (Kidding. But I was very relieved, I must say. Even a temporary solution is better than day to day fear.)
Drove to Motel, checked in. Not great, a bit out of date, but four walls, and it even has a microwave so we can have hot food again. YAAAY!
Drove back to library, after speaking to several DKOS members via phone with regards to potential long term solutions. I'm really overwhelmed by the assistance and help that I've gotten here, and will do the best I can to repay the generosity, however long it takes me.
Just finished typing that, and wow, it was busy.
I think what really gets to me is the willingness of so many people to pass the buck from one program to another. The qualifications to be one of the people who "Qualifies" for help of one type or another seems positively Byzantine. It took a long time to get what I needed, but at least I'm not on the street, Technically.
Since I don't have a permanent place to live, I'm still homeless. At least I'm clean, and maybe tonight I can sleep, since the fear of the next day is lessened slightly.
Again folks, thanks for everything you've done, and thanks for your help. I'm going to keep up the fight as long as I can. Today was pretty exhausting emotionally, but considering the odds, I'm just glad I am where I am. Until 7/27 at least.
Next step, getting that damn permanent place to live, that I can afford!
5:21 PM PT: Just received call from parents. Apparently my check has arrived. Offered to go to pick it up tonight, but they insist on meeting me in town. At this point if ANY more money is demanded, I intend to reply with a pleasant "I'll see how my budget works out."
6:01 PM PT: Time to go. Wish me luck tomorrow, will probably be a low-key day, but I do have to meet my folks at 10.