“I’m optimistic about the future when I see that there are people who truly desire to help.”
“Woman”, who doesn’t want her face depicted, is a woman in her mid-forties who is descended from the Sioux Indian Nation. She was adopted by a family from Inglewood, and then lived in Ventura County. Her mother died when she was 14.
When this photo was taken, “Woman” had been homeless for nine years. She began the homeless life after her roommate left and “Woman” didn’t have rent money. She spent a few years at River Haven which ‘provided a community life that was rewarding.’
“Woman” has worked with her dad in the past. She has also worked in the hospital insurance billing field. However, she says that because her job history is sketchy and prospective employers see large periods of time not working, it creates doubt about her stability.
“Woman” feels optimistic about the future when she sees that there are people who truly desire to help and do something positive to alleviate suffering.