Monica

Today I met a homeless woman, Monica, who has been living in a tent with her husband Angelo in the Downtown area of Detroit, Michigan, for two years. I learned that there are few shelters around and most of the shelters in her area are for men only.

It's hard for Monica and Angelo to find food and get money. Monica believes she can get a job - she's educated, she's smart. But she doesn't have the look to walk into a place of business and expect to get a job. That's her biggest concern, she just wants to have some descent clothes and fix her appearance so she can get a job.

Monica has family in the area but they have no idea where she is living. Monica was a single, divorced mother of three. She was living with her mother but couldn't keep up with with payments. She then lost custody of her kids and her father put her on the street.

I wonder what type of family would do that to their own daughter? Monica is a very strong woman and is determined to get back on her feet, she just needs a chance.

Loren Courts
Multimedia Intern
United Way Brand Identity and Communications