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Streets, Shelters, and Finally, Zeke's - Michael's Story Before Zeke’s, Michael lived in the neighborhood, often sleeping on the stoop of Chevy Chase Presbyterian Church. For three years he came into Friendship Place for help, getting sandwiches and coffee and meeting with the case managers and doctor. He stayed in the Crossroads Shelter at St. Alban’s in the winter of 2007, and Metropolitan House the winter of 2008. Michael has a special relationship with Deborah Prieto, Director of Homeless Services at Friendship Place. He would often come in to talk with her about his hopes for the future. Deborah is happy that he’s successfully moved through the shelters and into permanent supportive housing with Friendship Place. “I have always admired Michael’s drive and self-sufficiency. He knows how to obtain the services he needs in the DC metro area. And now, he’s hoping to connect with family in Florida and look for a job.” Now that he is settled at Zeke’s House, Michael is taking the time to enjoy his new home. He is looking forward to cooking in the kitchen and relaxing by watching tv. Don’t expect him to sit still for long—he is already on the lookout for a computer to help him in his job search. When asked about the house, he said, “I think it’s really nice here. It’s nice to have my own sink and a mirror to brush my teeth. But, simply, it’s nice to have a roof over my head and not sleep outside. When I was on the street, people were not too generous to me. I was on my own, until I found Friendship Place.” Crossroads Shelter and Metropolitan House belong to our network of small, congregation-based transitional shelters. Go back to Stories From the Street |