Imagine sleeping in a public portable toilet stall. For most, the thought would be unimaginable. For Michael, it offered a sense of security and a measure of protection from the elements. He managed to sleep in the stall and find some solace there. When he needed to take care of his personal hygiene, he was resourceful. “I would go to Walmart and wash up in the sink, brush my teeth, and then head to my job,” noted Michael. He found a way to survive.
Struggles of Homelessness
Michael became homeless in November 2023, after he left his home because of family issues. When relationship issues within his family became intolerable and he knew he had to leave. With nowhere to go, he went to a local park. With only a park bench available, he felt exposed. That’s when he decided to use the portable toilet stall as his new home. While living in the portable toilet, Michael got to know people who were living in a tent city near the park. The people were friendly and supportive. Eventually, Michael moved into the tent city. “It was a community. We helped each other. We looked out for each other.” Michael became a leader in the tent city and was respected by those who lived there. Some called him the mayor of the tent city. Michael appreciated the camaraderie and the support they gave each other.
The railroad evicted those living at the tent city and made plans to raze the tents and buildings that were erected on railroad property. With little notice and no options, Michael and others had nowhere to go.
Opportunity House Works to Provide Solutions in Pottstown
Opportunity House began working with community members and political leaders to develop a solution for those being evicted from the tent city. With just a few weeks of planning, a Code Blue Shelter opened at the Days Inn in Pottstown. This provided a warm and safe place for those who were living outdoors. In addition to shelter, Opportunity House provided meals, access to showers, and laundry facilities. Individuals and couples were given priority for shelter. After living in the tent city for a year, Michael was welcomed at the Code Blue Shelter in Pottstown. (A Code Blue shelter provides a safe place to stay during the cold winter
Michael is ready to start his day at Montgomery County Community College while living in a shelter.
months.) Thanks to the efforts of Montgomery County and Pottstown Borough, the shelter continues to provide shelter throughout the year.
In addition to meeting the daily needs of clients, Opportunity House provided case management services. Michael’s case manager helped him establish goals and develop a pathway to permanent housing. This extra support gave Michael the confidence to move forward. Kim Hartman, case manager, said “Michael is determined to succeed. We are here to help him every step of the way.”
Case Management Makes a Difference
“Opportunity House is a lifesaver. I’m glad I connected with them. They advocate for people and don’t look down at you,” said Michael. He felt supported on his journey. Kim Hartman, case manager, noted that Michael also encourages others. He helped build a bridge of trust between clients and the case management staff. “I knew that if I trusted the case managers, they would see that they could trust them,” said Michael.
Today, Michael considers himself a work in progress. “I stay focused on my goals and never give up,” he said. He is currently attending Montgomery County Community College while working at Panera Bread. Among his goals is becoming a peer specialist. Recently, he reached an important milestone—securing his own apartment and living independently. “Having my own apartment feels good,” Michael shared.
With growing confidence in his abilities and the support of a dedicated team at Opportunity House, Michael is well on his way to achieving his goals and building the life he has worked so hard to create.