Actually Rose, I got SSI within 3 months of applying on the grounds of being mentally unstable. I was 33 at the time, so only a couple years younger than the age group you gave.

Does 2 years make that much difference?

Just curious, not trying to start anything.

Also, yes, housing subsidy usually takes years but if you are homeless and live in a shelter, you automatically get "bumped" to the top of the list. I know this from having been homeless and lived in a shelter.