As coronavirus outbreak worsens, streetwise participants respond

collected by Amanda Jones

Charles Hudson, STEP Participant

Sitting here at Northside housing shelter in Chicago and I have to say, it's real boring but it's safe. We only have 16 people in the shelter where I stay, we had about 55 to 60 but they were all moved because they were in good health. The ones that remain have other health problems and are more likely to catch COVID-19, which I hope I don't. Everybody that lives is the shelter got tested for COVID-19, will soon have the results.

I was scheduled for a biopsy last week which got cancelled so I just sit around doing nothing. I was working at Concord Music Hall and Deadbolt Hip Hop Bar but because of the pandemic, both jobs are closed. Now I have nothing to do but stay inside and stay safe and healthy. I am trying to find things to do to pass the time.

The police just came to the shelter, they had some masks with them and instructions that everyone has to put the mask on and we have to have them on at all times.

David Tillman

I am leaving for Texas to stay with my sister.

Right now, at this time, I am looking on this coronavirus disease! I AM STAYING IN THE HOUSE NOT WORKING... AND GOING ABSOLUTELY NUCKING FUTS!! But I Am Taking All Precautions!

The Depression Rate Has Gone SKY HIGH. My graduation is CANCELLED! I won't be walking the stage or receiving my diploma until the printing company opens up again. Even tho I am now 8 years sober from alcohol and 19 months sober from cigarettes, being sober from those is a bad mutha (SHUTYOMOUTH!)

Be Blessed And Safe!

Debbie Booker

Just got home kind of slow today. Everyone telling me to go home. Another funeral my cousin died 2 weeks ago, his funeral is Saturday. He had cancer for 5 years and soon he got COVID-19 and he died. Cookie said she going to the funeral with me, she knows some of my kids and family.

My challenges are just feeling nervous about getting within 6 feet of people. I wear a mask but it is very hot. I wear gloves too.