You all share excellent ideas. Being in the position I am, I can tell you what the suburban Chicago shelter system is like (but I don't want to depress anyone). The overnight shelters close at the end of this month, so only nine more days until I start sleeping in my car again. Things will be a little harder and a bit more lonely then. It will be a little like camping, but without the campfire, and my "tent" will be my car. The day office is open Monday through Friday during regular business hours from 9am-4pm, so I can have a hot lunch there.

Being homeless means having a caseworker at the day office and *hoping* that you get help. Like in my case, I also have other caseworkers with different agencies, like for food stamps and things. One caseworker with the Department of Rehab Services is almost a flake and hasn't reopened my file yet, so yes extra support is always welcome in putting up with beaurocratic BS! She was supposed to help get me into housing. It can be hard to get the right support from anywhere. Having these forums at least helps for some venting. Love ya guys!