Growing Bolder Community

Prior to leaving campus for the summer my daughter asked me to come visit so I could go apartment hunting with her. Much to my surprise, every apartment complex she liked at had a pool and fitness center. The landscaping was impeccable and some were gated communitities---which means a security guard had to approve your entrance. Rent ranged from $595 to $800.My, how college life has changed!My...

Country club to Shelter living Homeless Shelter, scary words for me. I came to the Women’s Shelter a little over four weeks ago. I came not wanting to, but had no other choice. After neck surgery, I put $10,000 on credit cards, paying doctors and hospital bills. I knew the $600 a month I got from Social Security would not allow me to pay bills, pay rent, and eat. I pictured myself in a card...

Country club to Shelter living Homeless Shelter, scary words for me. I came to the Women’s Shelter a little over four weeks ago. I came not wanting, but had no other choice. After neck surgery, I put $10,000 on credit cards, paying doctors and hospital bills. I knew the $600 a month from Social Security would not allow me to pay bills, pay rent, and eat. I pictured myself in a card board box,...

Now that I have officially been told that I do not live in my neighborhood’s historic district, that I’m simply on the fringes (the story of my life), I have completely lost focus; my life has no direction. I now sit barefooted on the back step and drink cheap beer all day while I wave at the homeless men who slouch around in the area. I even laughed and clapped when one of them threw a beer...

Well, I just got back from a most wonderful 2 weeks away 'on tour' and I must say I am tired and still reeling from all the events! All 3 concerts were a real joy to do. The St. Paul United Church of Christ and the MCC of Greater St. Louis were more than gracious and generous. I want to thank all who got these two...