The DU Lounge
Related: Culture Forums, Support ForumsI'm pretty much homeless tomorrow
And honestly I have no idea what to do.
I have savings and a college degree but have no idea what I can do to make a living immediately.
A Little Weird
(1,754 posts)That sounds like a scary situation! Do you have a place to go? I know resources are inconsistent throughout the country but there may be programs to help you with housing until you can get back on your feet.
My community has something like that. It's administered by the same people that are in charge of the homeless shelter. Some folks have been able to stay in temporary housing for a year or two until they can get in a better place financially.
Scruffy Rumbler
(961 posts)I have been there myself and I know it is not pleasant....to say the least.
Try calling 211. That is the information number for social services. It will connect with help in your area. Depending what state you are in, they can put you in touch with food and housing assistance.
Wish I could offer more than this advise and heartfelt hope for you to find a solution!
Homelessness is growing out of control across the country.
Peace...
Scruffy
TexasTowelie
(112,699 posts)but I didn't have any savings when it occurred.
Since you do have some savings I would try to put the possessions in storage and would consider selling anything that is not essential. If you have friends or relatives to stay with until you can get back on your feet then do so.
If you own a vehicle, then you may need to consider selling it to obtain extra cash. Look into what options are available regarding public transportation and using public facilities such as libraries so that you can go online for job searches. If you use a cell phone you can keep your cell phone recharged at the library. You might also want to get an extra cell phone battery so that you can maintain contact with those who can help you and for potential employment leads.
If you are in an urban area look for a homeless shelter, but be advised that you might have to make some changes that are uncomfortable. Some of the homeless shelters will want you to participate in faith-based programs, prohibit smoking and drinking, etc. You will only be allowed to bring in a limited amount of possessions (usually two bags of clothing).
If you don't own one already, I would suggest getting some type of backpack so that you can carry around a notebook, pens, one change of clothing, toiletries and any medical needs you might have. I also would get a small toiletry bag.
If you are in an urban area then be prepared to be walking on the street during most of the day. If you go to a homeless shelter, then expect to only get a limited amount of sleep.
Good luck with everything because you will probably have to make some uncomfortable choices during the short term. You indicated that you have some savings so it doesn't sound like you have reached the point of total desperation yet and since you haven't indicated your complete situation I can't provide much more advice. I was at the point where I had no savings, no vehicle, a limited amount of possessions, and a pet that I loved when I became homeless. Please keep us informed and I hope some good things will happen for you.
Wounded Bear
(58,792 posts)luckily I have family that put me up, but I basically couch surfed for about 3 years. Sucks to be old and unemployed. Then when I got work, it was temp crap at low pay, and not enough hours to survive on. Had to tough it out until I hit 62 and took early SS.
Best of luck to you!
Downwinder
(12,869 posts)you will probably have to spend your savings first.
grasswire
(50,130 posts)try craigslist for housing options that might be very reasonable -- shared, temporary, whatever. Housing is really the most important thing to secure, as being homeless is a lot of work and stress. It's all on craigslist.org and there are many temporary jobs listed there, too.
try to preserve anything that allows you to maintain the ability to work. Car, if you will need it in your location to hold a job. Phone. Mailing address even if it is a mailbox at a UPS store.
Keep yourself clean and groomed.
Rhiannon12866
(206,861 posts)You can see from the responses you've received that people here care and have helpful suggestions if we knew more about your situation. DUers are the most caring folks there are and we need to know you're okay.
cwydro
(51,308 posts)If you have savings, I assume you were paying rent.
What has caused the homelessness?
Ineeda
(3,626 posts)I wonder if the OP has just graduated from college, lived in a dorm, and had not worked in a career field during the academic experience. (?) Or I could be completely wrong!
liberalnarb
(4,532 posts)I'm so sorry this is happening to you though.
riderinthestorm
(23,272 posts)Maybe with more info we can offer more specific help. I second the idea of calling 211 and/or scanning immediate housing options on Craigslist.
Take it one step at a time so you don't get swamped with sadness or futility. First find a place to store your things so its safe. Breathe. Please check back in.
NobodyHere
(2,810 posts)I know I'm not as poor as some but as a thank you here's proof that cats are liquid
Bucky
(54,094 posts)There's usually homeless shelters in big cities. They're not great, obviously, but they're better than being on the street