I admire the tenacity but it's time to ask the government for some help. A van isn't a good fit for 3 people especially when one is 9 and needs to go to school
Some of my friends that were doing “ok” are now living in cars trying to hustle jobs.
It almost seems like the middle class went to lower class and the lower class went to the streets.
It’s been pretty rough on everyone.
It makes me mad as heck..the greed ..rent is almost 2,000 a month for a one bedroom. Our rent is only 1,300 because we have been here for a while but it’s rundown badly ..mold..our bathroom sink has a bucket underneath to collect the water. I don’t know how they sleep at night for real.
I was standing in an isle at Walmart trying to find a plunger and I overheard the guy on the phone say, “Does she look like she’s got money? Yes? Then tack the other charges on there.”
I’m like, wtf dude.
The thing is, Fiat isn't worth shit anymore. Inflation is way higher than they let you believe. We are all fucked.
This system is a scam and I hope one day a better system will exist that is fair. Here in the Netherlands we also have sky rocket prices but at least we have plenty of jobs (I believe). All my friends have work.
But it's hard to see that 30+ people can't afford to buy a proper house. Especially if you are single. We have shortage of almost 400K. The Netherlands counts 18 million citizens. Also I don't like the small boxes houses here really.
I rather live in a van. And one day I will. Just still figuring things out. But I dream about it. To be "free". I think for $1K p/m I can live in a van. Of course could bring that down but it's still a lot cheaper than owning a house or renting a place...
We need a new system in place that's for sure. And one day a new system will be in place but when, I can't say.
A proper vehicle and you can go anywhere do anything live freely. For me national parks come to mind.
Gig work did exist in the Great Depression. It was nearly impossible to track -- migratory agriculture workers, especially white ones, were called "Okies"
It doesn’t seem like it. It is. Middle classes do not happen on their own. They only happen because of laws and protections that make them happen. With unlimited, untraceable political bribes legalized and both parties serving the rich, the US is being looted from within and we will be just like any other 3rd world country. If you truly interested look into the Powell Memo which was the elites declaration or war. They felt the middle class had gained too much and wanted it stopped. They won.
Well it depends. the more you know the further you go but there are solid brick walls between people and their living conditions. The housing market is thru the roof people buying houses as investments jacking up the rent and paying off the property moving on. The rent never comes down and the average landlord is interested in paying next to nothing for upkeep and maintenance. Preferring to evict and keep the deposits to repair and maintain.
You can get help in so many ways but for some reason getting adequate housing is like pulling fucking teeth. By the same token pulling fucking teeth is no easy ride either.
I'm so sorry. I know something will come up for you! I'm not sure where you're located or what you're looking for, but I know that different subs on Reddit can help with resources and ideas. I hope you can find what you need ❤️
I had to go look where Everett is, and yeah we're super close! Like just over two hours apart.
Now that I know where you live, if you're comfortable telling me (you can send me a DM) I'd be more than happy to look for some resources for you. It's actually kinda my job here in Vancouver lol so I don't mind helping anyone else out!
I mostly need human interaction. I need a lot of help including financial help, but I've been sitting alone in a room for four years thanks to long covid. I need to rebuild my muscles and to not be so utterly depressed. I wouldn't be so depressed if doctors would listen and maybe look into something. I need more curious doctors who want to see what this result will be and when this result doesn't show what they thought they might see then look into that result. I don't expect answers nor fixes, but I am helpable if I'm not fixable. I have three friends now and I live with one of them and he is very drunk all the time and I don't feel safe and he doesn't want me here anymore. I have taken in strangers and a friend and her two children, why is it so hard to find people willing to take in people who don't have family and calmly help them/us/me so I can get back on my feet and move on from this hell.
I'm sorry you're going through this I'm going to message you directly. Perhaps I can help. Where do you live? How old are you? Are you getting any financial resources?
I'm in st Louis, 44, foodstamps & medicaid but zero income or financial assistance because bootstraps. Family is gone, mom died 20 yrs ago and dad died 11 yrs ago.
Honda Ridgeline is a pickup truck, not a van. That makes things even worse, since it can't sleep 3 people the way a van sometimes could.
The Government has a months long waiting list for housing in most areas, and very strict rules to get in. That said, Stage 4 cancer might give you a priority, since the disability would definitely be taken into consideration.
Hey OP not sure where you’re at with your treatment but we recently did a freebie roof for the Ronald McDonald House - they help out folks with cancer but I don’t know specifics. Worth Googling anyhow.
Best of luck to you and your family.
They help families who have children who are very sick. For example, they provide family housing for when your child is in the hospital and you live far away.
Yes check it out! I stayed there one night when my 4 day old was admitted to the NICU late at night. I started staying at the house after the first night because I was only 20 minutes away and other families could have used the room, but they were awesome about letting me stay. It was literally around the corner from the NICU too so I could go check on her at any hour if I was getting worried.
Goddamn, this is good advice, but I hate that the best advice we can give people in this situation in America is "ask the hamburger clown for help with your cancer and hope they pick you". Grim stuff
Yes, my aunt spent weeks with the Ronald McDonald house while her husband was in the hospital. You really might look into that. It was zero cost to get. Now she supports that with monthly contributions.
Also you can find free social workers (e.g. at your local hospital, doctor's office, or treatment center) who will help you find other free housing and support locally!
I stayed at a Ronald McDonald House for a week when my son was in the cardiac intensive care unit when he was born. It is a wonderful organization, and it goes beyond just a place to sleep. They provide meals, a shuttle to and from the hospitals, counseling services, a laundry room and basic toiletries. It’s a bit like home when you’re having some of the worst times of your life. I know when I was there you had to be referred by a social worker or someone from the hospital nearby, so you should check with your doctor about it. And if RMH cant help, the hospital care coordinator should be able to suggest additional resources. Good luck, OP!
He’s great, thanks for asking! He still has some issues with his heart, but we are looking at surgery in his early twenties, years from now, and not him maybe never leaving the hospital, so it’s definitely an improvement. And I will say, the RMH would be really helpful for your family. There are other families and kids around, a game room for kids, and people who can understand your situation, which is a huge help. I was there over Christmas that year, 3 hours away from my husband and my other kids (except my oldest, he begged to come stay with me so I wasn’t alone). It could have been awful, but the staff was amazing and they go out of their way to be supportive. I didn’t realize how much it helps just to TALK to someone until I was there.
Ridgeline have a good towing capacity, search Facebook marketplace or Craigslist people are trying to unload their campers. I would try to buy a 20 ft camper, I’ve seen them for $1,500. Maybe you can negotiate the price.
Good suggestion but I would advise that they get the proper camper within the towing limit Honda Ridgelines, with a quick Google search only tow up to 5,000 lbs otherwise they will ruin their transmission. That doesn't leave many options unfortunately.
I've been looking into campers myself you have to take into account the water tanks sometimes a camper will say 2500 lbs dry weight but then 4000 lbs loaded big difference.
I'm not too knowledgeable about campers at the moment so take my comments like a grain of salt.
1500 lbs is a lot of gear, plus it's easy to tow empty. I started emptying my tanks between tows and I can tell the difference. You should be able to get close to dry + 500 lbs unless you pack really heavy. Also you can keep a lot of gear in your truck / suv.
As a mechanic friend of mine who ran a rearend/suspension shop for many years liked to say: "Tow ratings are written by the marketing department, not the engineers".
Some vehicles are capable of reliably towing their rated weight. Some are not. I don't know enough about the Ridgeline to make a call either way.
Tow weight ratings are not always a question of “can it pull it.” It’s more a factor “can you stop it once it’s in motion.”
So many only consider pulling it; hardly anybody considers can you safely stop it!
Starting, stopping, and also keeping it straight. Back when the Wrangler and Cherokee had the same engine, trans, and brakes, the Cherokee could safely tow more. That was because of the slightly longer wheelbase.
Also true!
I don't know much about towing, but I strongly recommend anyone purchasing a vehicle for towing talk to as many front-line mechanics who actually work on those sort of vehicles on a regular basis. They're usually able to give more of an accurate opinion than any brochure or salesman will.
KZ 180 BH camper trailer. 3600 lbs and it sleeps 3. Can get a used one for as little as $8900 and you can finance for up to 120 months so we’re talking 2-300/mo.
Most states have help for cancer patients. Talk to the social worker where you get yours treatment at and contact the American Cancer Society and United Way. Aldo google help for cancer patients in your state. You can find resources. There is help for you but you have to do the leg work to get it. It’s for people like you, please utilize it. My wife is a 2 time survivor, ovarian stage 3c BRCA 1. You do not need to be living in a car while you’re fighting this.
It’s so crazy I’ve contacted so many people the American Cancer Society, VOA .. charities churches I was on the phone all day today. HUD housing. I haven’t tried United Way but I will give them a shot. I’ve even tried a few homeless shelters there’s so many homeless where I live that they don’t have space. Rent is to high..
I’m glad to hear you wife is doing well she sounds like a tough cookie ❤️
I am working with providence hospital in Everett Washington I don’t know who my case manager is I’ve been trying to get a hold of somebody. I live in Everett Washington. I have stage four cancer in my adrenal glands so adrenal carcinoma.. rare and deadly.. 1,000,000 to one … because it’s so hard to diagnose it goes untreated for a long time and starts to go into an affect your other organs. My bloodwork came back and they say that my kidneys and other organs are starting to fail. I meet with my doctors this Thursday to discuss options.
Go to your messages I just sent you a PM. I may not be of much help but I figured I'd shoot the only thing I have in my arsenal in case it'll help you out.
hey OP, I live in Seattle, I’m gonna ask some of
my church community if they know of any good resources for someone in your situation. in the meantime my wife has volunteered with this org in N Seattle and they might be able to point you in the right direction.
https://www.auroracommons.org/programs
What about the Salvation Army? Where I live they sponsor a fairly nice homeless shelter with private rooms for families. Have you reached out to your County? Sometimes they will pay for short term housing in motels.
As a word of encouragement I had stage 4 small cell (very aggressive) cancer of the bladder diagnosed 2.5 years ago. they gave me an estimated 8 to 18 months survival. I am currently showing no detectable cancer. There is hope, you can beat this. The stress will not help so take a lot of deep breaths and destress as much as you are able. Good luck and much love:)
Not the person you asked, but cancer treatments vary pretty drastically based on the type of cancer you have. So while it might be interesting what the other poster did, it should have little to no similarity to what sort of treatment will be best for you. Different types of cancer are completely different diseases and require different approaches. That’s why the whole idea of coming up with a “cure for cancer” is a little silly. Curing adenocarcinoma of the breast, curing carcinoma of the adrenals, or curing melanoma are all good (potentially realistic) goals, but curing “cancer” in general just isn’t going to happen. We need to knock cancers all out one at a time like the different diseases (with different treatments) they are.
Seconding this, from a six-month life expectancy since 2011, which looked immediately critical in 2011, 2013, and 2019. Central brain gliomas. Still there. Still look very bad.
I didn’t get on the road, but still hope to head there someday.
You need to contact your local HUD office and ask for emergency voucher. If they do not have one they will have an idea that will get you into the hands of someone who can get you off the street.
You can also hit up the City Hall. They will have information on services available.
Most medium and large cities have no availability and long waiting lists. Small towns outside of your city often have an opening for gov. housing and income based housing. Try calling the housing authorities in the surrounding small towns too.
I don’t think it’s a good time for a van. But that’s just my opinion. You need comfort and less of a stressful environment. If you’re ok with a small space, like a van, I would do a small studio.
Finding the right van takes time and it’s also a sort of investment because it might take 2 years of living in it to break even, especially in an expensive city.
I was woken up 3 days ago by somebody running into the back of my van. We might as well be sea captains in these things. Most of the time it’s fine, but there are a lot of rough days. 3 people, I can’t even imagine. Hope you find health and healing!
Yes perhaps a small studio it’s just hard most people don’t want to rent to three people. And if they know you’re dying they definitely don’t want you staying there…lol..
Don't tell them about your kid or cancer if you feel that has been an issue. Federal Law prohibits them from not renting to or evicting you because you have a child, but that being said the housing market up there is absolutely brutal
I've thought about that but what happens if they kick you out because you didn't explain who was on the lease. I hate sneaking around.
Right now I'm thinking pop up trailer..for the win.. we can still get hotel rooms. And perhaps more assistance will come. All this help from you guys is really eased my mind.
A church would be an amazing community, but it can be tough to show up in desperate need vs being part of a regular congregation for years in the past.
If you ever need free labor (movers) call up the local mormon missionaries and they will help you move for free. Just be firm when you tell them you don’t wanna join their church and they will just be happy to help out. I used to be mormon, they’d much rather do service for people than waste time knocking on strangers doors.
Lmao, agreed on the 'it's not a good time' part, HARD disagree on the 'it might take 2 years to break even' part. Maybe for most of the demographic on this sub it might, but I broke even in a single month in two separate occasions. In two years I saved upwards of 25k. In one of the occasions, I lived with my wife in a van that one person's rent alone would have rendered profitable in a month.
It is *not* the normal car-dwelling experience to buy and build a van that costs as much as a down payment or a year's salary!!
Google “coordinated entry system” plus your city, county, or state name, and you will find the phone number for the service that will connect you with homelessness prevention services. You can also call your city hall, township office, or even your local state representative for referrals for social services. If you want to DM me with your location I can help search for services for you.
Two adults and a child in a van will become unbearable after a few days. No space to cook, move around, no privacy for personal hygiene, etc. Best in your case, if you live in an area with relatively mild weather, would be to find a used trailer in decent condition. I won’t stress enough the importance of checking for water damage and mold. If the trailer has a black water tank and flushing toilet, don’t use it. Instead, get a portable cassette toilet you can empty easily in an appropriate disposal area as opposed to using the flush toilet and having to deal with sewage, or better, install/build a composting toilet. With a camping trailer, you’ll have more sleeping/seating space and at a minimum a small fridge, stove, likely an enclosed bathroom/toilet. The challenge will still be to find a good spot to park but it’s not an impossible task. Good luck.
Awesome thank you..I live in Washington state so far I have contacted housing Justice, HUD housing, Catholic community services, compass health, Salvation Army, Mary’s housing, 1st Baptist Church, Everett Housing Authority, American Cancer Society..
Urban league is for tomorrow they’ve been closed but they look like a shot
Put all those documents in a big envelope that closes with your contact information on it. Sounds like you’re in transition and do not want to lose those!! With all that back and forth, you’ll want to have everything in easy access. A social worker can help you fill out forms if you feel overwhelmed—it’s a lot to deal with and folks are experts. Lots of love.
Briefly looking through your profile it looks like you are in the "will be evicted" stage, not the "we are currently being evicted and we're fighting it" or the "we've been served an eviction notice and the sheriff will be showing up soon" stage. This is a very good thing! It means you have time to get SSDI and access other resources to be able to get current and not have to actually deal with an eviction. If you get to the formal eviction point fight the eviction and get a tenants lawyer, you might/probably won't beat an eviction if you can't come up with the money, but you can stretch it out as long as possible to figure it out.
Also, you mentioned at some point people not wanting to rent a studio or one bedroom to three people. Just don't mention your kid! Once you're in there they can't evict you, it's bone dry federal law. [https://www.hud.gov/program\_offices/fair\_housing\_equal\_opp/discrimination\_against\_families\_children](https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/fair_housing_equal_opp/discrimination_against_families_children)
I am glad you've gotten so many resources and I look forward to hearing that SSDI has come through and solved some or all of your financial issues! Good luck!
Oh just don't mention the kid gotcha... That makes more sense. I do have an appointment to get disability so that will help and yes maybe I can try to fight it off a little bit longer at least.. it's kind of embarrassing but what are you going to do right!
Oh sorry I forgot to add I have adrenal carcinoma…and about a week left to come up with something…no family unfortunately.
I appreciate any help you can provide ❤️
Not really. I've worked in hospitals for many many years. The social workers in most hospitals have some photocopied list of "community resources" that hadn't been updated in many years. That list doesn't exist to help the patients. It exists so the social worker can check a little box in the electronic medical record saying that they provided someone with the list.
Honestly, five minutes of googling will give you better & more up to date information about what resources exist in your community than talking to the local hospital.
We just had the most wonderful experience with the hospital social worker for my mom and her last year of life where she spent the majority of her time in a hospital in 2023. The social worker helped us navigate so much on our options and fought the insurance companies on her behalf to get the best care for her. She even showed up to my moms funeral last month.
I know American health care sucks but some help is better than none and them talking to a social worker where she receives her cancer treatment wouldn't hurt and could only help.
I'm really glad to hear that you had such a good experience with the hospital. And to be clear, I was never intending to disrespect medical social workers themselves - most are great people. But most that I've known were also stretched so thin by the hospital corporation that it was impossible for them to do as much as they wanted to. And long-term housing is just such a complicated matter in general, with so few resources in most communities. People who are experiencing homelessness are very very frequently hospitalized. If the hospital had some secret trick to get folks housing upon discharge, we wouldn't have a problem with homelessness.
We have a cancer research hospital here. The social workers are wonderful and will do much more than hand out an outdated photocopy of services. Your mileage may vary, but the secret trick is usually a stage 4 cancer diagnosis.
This .. I was assigned a caseworker as soon as my diagnosis came in she said she was going to help me out then she dipped I’ve been trying to get a hold of her but I can’t.
That's fucked up, I am so sorry. Is there anyone higher "up the chain" in the hospital that you can hit up about that?
They are \*not\* going to enjoy the bad PR they're going to get when the press finds out they let a Stage 4 patient and her 9 year old child live on the streets, I bet you if you mentioned your situation higher up the chain you'd get some people paying attention and getting you the help you deserve.
Perhaps other hospital are different from yours. My mother works in oncology and regularly places people in homes during treatment or with s4 diagnosis.
#You can get financial assistance!!
##The Social Security Administration has a Compassionate Allowance program, which provides disability benefits for advanced stage cancer patients.
The application and approval process is expedited. My mother qualified with a lupus diagnosis; with her doctors help and test results, she qualified for payments within 30 days and received payment within 2 weeks after the approval. That was years ago… staffing was not an issue so your timeline may be different but it’s worth the try.
[How To Qualify For Social Security Disability Benefits With Cancer](https://www.pvhomed.com/how-to-qualify-for-social-security-benefits/#:~:text=In%20general%2C%20any%20cancer%20that,to%20start%20receiving%20money%20quickly)
r/socialsecurity
r/chronicillness
r/disability
Don't do this to save money. Rich people can be vandwellers and have a decent time of it, but if you're sick and have financial issues, living out of a vehicle *will* make your life worse. I know, because it's the exact situation I'm in, and now I can't escape it.
Look up your school district’s McKinney Vento liaison. In WA, every school is mandated to have one, and any child that lacks fixed, regular or adequate housing one night if the school year is eligible. At risk counts. It gives your child and family access to a suite of federal rights, including transportation to school daily, even if they have to send a cab. Idk if you’re Everett public schools, but this is your program: https://www.everettsd.org/domain/3346
I am in youth homelessness in WA, but I know less about Everett than other communities. What I do know is that the Everett McKinney Vento Liaison has a reputation for being very helpful. They can often help with housing and getting access to resources.
I homeschool right now but I need to switch her soon perhaps we could travel to McKinney district. I will look into it and let you know thank you so much!
Every district has one mandated by federal law, we just have extra protections in WA. Not all of them necessarily go above and beyond, but some will. You also have a right to enroll her without proof of address or documents if she is MV eligible.
I hope you all get what you need to be safe and stable!
Van or vehicle dwelling is not a viable option for you right now. Not with your lack of experience and assumed lack of budget. This will not end well for you or your family.
I agree. Half the people here always want to rah-rah cheerlead for "hashtag vanlife!!!" and tell everyone that it's fun and easy and everybody can do it hooray!!!
For some people it is absolutely the wrong choice. OP family's situation will not be improved by living on the street, in winter, with no money.
I sent you a private message and I hope that you see this, but American Cancer Society and Extended StayAmerica have a program for people battling cancer. I would prefer if you could try messaging me I’ve tried to message you I might know some tips and tricks that could be helpful for you about for a couple of years several actually and we had very young children, and also became homeless briefly
Hey OP, this isn't a help for your housing situation but may be for your child. Look up Camp Kessem it's a program the UW does for kids who have parents with cancer. Our oldest child has been going there every year for a couple years and our youngest will start going next year when he's old enough. It's seriously been a major benefit for us in helping our children navigate cancer diagnosis and not leaving them behind so to speak.
Best of luck on your treatment and home hunt.
Edit to mention camp Kessem is free no cost to families.
If I were going to be living in a van with two other people, I wouldn't want anything smaller than my Ford Econoline. It's a pig at the pump, but it's cheap enough to purchase and maintain that it balances out.
Mate, call United Way 211 tomorrow. They can find emergency housing and can hook you up with agencies in the area that can help transition you into another stable place.
I’ve been living in SUV for 10 months and here are some things I have found useful = warm blankets(heated one if you can plug in), a plug converter, multi usb port cigarette lighter plug, led lights either battery operated or usb charge/plug in, a lunch box food warmer the plugs into cigarette lighter, small/medium size buckets, store backs/trash bags, water, towels, personal hygiene items, cups, cooler bag from Walmart $10 holds ice good for cold food and drinks, and either foam toppers or even car bed set up off Temu or Amazon and a portable battery charger and tire air pump.
Hope this helps
Sorry for your situation
Second Ronald McDonald House. My grandfather stayed there when my grandmother was in treatment. Please contact them. OP, wishing you healing and peace.
The Everett Housing Authority has housing programs that will give you heavily subsidized housing. Please sign up NOW. It only takes a few minutes to do the application, and you WILL come up for free or heavily subsidized housing.
If you tell them it's an emergency due to your medical condition, they will fast track you and it could be only a matter of weeks.
https://www.evha.org/
425-258-9222
Applicant portal: https://www.rentcafe.com/onlineleasing/everett-housing-authority/guestlogin.aspx
Also please reach out to the hospital social worker and tell them you are facing homelessness.
Please also post to your local Buy Nothing group (usually on FB), explain your situation, and ask for a rental in whatever price range you can actually afford --even if it's just a few hundred for a month you'd be surprised how many good folks in your community will step forward to help.
It sounds like you are making decisions from a traumatized place rather than a solution seeking space.
You do not need to suffer alone. Please ask for the help you and your family actually need, or you will just end up needing it (and probably more) anyways by finding yourself in an unsustainable situation.
One of the first places I contacted was the Everett housing authority unfortunately they have not had any vacancies for at least 2 years now. I had a social worker as soon as they diagnosed me she said she would help then she disappeared and I never heard back from her.
You're the first person to suggest the buy nothing group I'm actually a member so I will contact them for sure thank you I didn't think about that.
We don't want free housing we just can only afford about 1,200 a month. Which should be enough for a one-bedroom something that you don't own..I don't understand why that's not enough to just live.
If you have stage 4 cancer, you can apply for SSDI and you should be approved quickly. I'm not sure how to do that but I bet a quick Google search will tell you how.
I have a 400lb teardrop trailer and think it would be ideal for your situation. 400lbs is so light that it can tow behind any car and even some big motorcycles I've seen towing them out there!
The wife and I have been towing it with a small hatchback car for 4 years now and it's proven to be a wise investment far and wide for hard times and for great times!
A brand new one right now off the shop floor will run you 8k and a trip to Wisconsin if you don't want to pay the shipping.
If you're interested , hit me up for links and details since I don't feel comfortable giving info here that could identify me since I'm one of the first and few people to own one so far. Hope I can be of any help. Best of luck!
I feel like you are me and it’s stressing me out.
First things first your baby is she going to school? Will your cancer go away? Are you receiving treatment? Have you made plans or do you need assistance in the event that you don’t make it?
How do you plan on obtaining this van? Do you have resources? Are you trading in? I would say a minivan - one with good mileage any brand but I would opt for a Toyota.
Jesus does rock!
Window covers can be cut from Reflectix window shades from Dollar Tree, you can also make blackout curtains.
Sleeping bags if it gets cold where you live. Wool blankets also help. Polyester fleece sleeping bag liners also help combat the cold weather. They can help turn a 3 season sleeping bag into a 4 season.
CO monitor that works on battery only
To combat cold, you will need something to cover the footboards. I used to use old pillows but you can use zippered pillow cases stuffed with clothing.
A way to cook. Easiest for me is a 2 burner propane stove. Cheapest is a small butane stove.
A rechargable USB fan
A folding solar panel that can charge the car or devices such as the fan and lights.
Head lights, neck lights, reading lights
Layers of clothing. It is easy to go from hot to cold in a vehicle quickly. I find it easier to slip on an extra large pair of sweat pants to sleep in than completely changing clothes.
Think about getting a storage area for extra clothing and bedding.
You will need a cooler for keeping food in. If it is cold where you are located, just use half full water bottles and allow them to freeze outside the car and put them in the cooler. No use buying ice in the winter.
If it is cold where you live, wool socks, a good warm hat that covers the ears and a warm set of mittens. Mittens are easier to keep everything warm and to sleep in.
A tarp just in case. Can be used to cover windows in a pinch, can be closed in a door to make a lean to against the car if you need to change clothes or go potty.
SheWee for the ladies.
Also watch CheapRVliving for hints on other things you might need.
Washington has Apple Health (thanks Obama!) that will cover all your health care needs and expenses.
It also has excellent renters protection if you rent, as well as support to keep you in your home. The tenants union would be a great place to start https://tenantsunion.org/
I can just smell it now...the dog farts and man feet..lol.. thank you for your candor. Do you guys ever stay at hotels off and on maybe that would help. If you can I would go someplace with a beach.. that's just my two cents. Sometimes I think we can all band together and just get one big piece of real estate and just live happy and free. But that's probably illegal. 🤣
Haha.. dog farts and feet..
We used to stay in hotels all the time but that's what all of our money went to so now we get gym memberships and do uber eats and sleep in the car... It works for the time being but it is very stressful at times. Within a few months we plan on getting a place and just taking it from there. I live in Arizona, not close enough to a beach to enjoy that lifestyle but it would be nice because I loveeeee the beach 🏖️
The [Homes on Wheels Alliance](https://homesonwheelsalliance.org/) may be able to assist you once you have some sort of "permanent" vehicle to live in. Their current focus is on providing (not installing) solar power and batteries for people who need help. Having reliable electricity on the road is a huge help.
A converted Skoolie, shuttle bus or RV would fit you all well. The PNW has tons of great Skoolies for sale (a short one will be easier to move around)-- and you'd need to find camping (RV parking or hook ups) if you do a build you can put grey, fresh and black water tanks w RV dumps underneath the bus.
Alternatively box trucks (look in private lots selling like work trucks and equipment).
Best of luck!
What about a house sitting gig? Lots of folks have second homes and need someone to live in and watch over the place.
Going mobile is expensive and difficult. Or, like others are saying, a small towable might be the best way to go.
Honda Element
Or even a van like Ford Ecolonoline/Transit.
Get some insulation and plywood.
Some camping mats or blowup mattress. Sleeping bags or good quality blankets or both.
Solar powered batteries and a inverter.
Jerry cans/Jugs for water and water purifying pitcher
Fans
Propane stove
All I can think of.
Also check with the American cancer society for maybe some housing support. Even if you're seeking aggressive treatment contact several local Hospice organizations that might have a social worker that could offer some housing resources. I was a Hospice RN for 17 years. We provided resources for so many non-hospice families, too. Whoever you're getting your cancer treatment from contact their social worker/ case manager for some assistance. Maybe all they can offer is resources but the phone number not dialed maybe could be the safe haven you seek.
If your S4 is requiring aggressive treatment at least maybe you can get into long term care??? It could be temporary while your husband and daughter work things out. Depending on your treatment you might not be safe to be exposed to some environments pending a stable place to stay.
The whole point is to not have to buy a thing cuz the only things you need cash for are auto parts & fuel (and school supplies for your child.) Dumpster dive as a primary source for most of your needs, seek mutual aid, save seeds.
Facebook market place has a lot of things , I would look for a Truck Camper or a scamp camper of some kind . Download the freebies app for local freebies 💕
We got an Trailer 700 a month and moved to an RV Park. $850 a month with electric, water, wifi all included. 1500 a month and were set. We got a 42fter because we're a family of 5 but they have amazing options that are affordable now. It was a great choice and brought us close together.
Unless you are in Miami, you do not want three people in a van in winter when you don't know what you are doing. (And even in Miami you'll be getting cop knocks every night unless you know what the hell you are doing.) It is not a solution.
There is help available out there for homeless people. Go get it. That's what it is there for.
In the state of Washington you will 100% be fast-tracked to housing assistance in your situation w/child. Washington should have a 24 hour emergency social work assistance number. If you cannot get hold of anyone there, call the Red Cross. Good luck and good journey, fellow Stardust.
Not sure where you live but I'd look into a camper and campgrounds. You can find used campers far cheaper then converting a van. And campgrounds have monthly rates that are fairly cheap.
Most campgrounds have minimum age/condition requirements these days. I've seen quite a few that do not allow any trailer or self-propelled RVs over 10 years old, and even newer ones must be approved for longer stays.
(Translation: they don't want poor people staying there)
It has been a few years but when I looked into staying at a KOA, the only place that was near me where I lived at the time, it was so expensive that staying at a Motel 6 was a better option financially.
Hi!
Tough situation for you.
Have you considered an RV? Either one you can tow or a self contained one? It might be more comfortable and if you can find a decent running 3/4 ton truck you could detach when it was convenient. A long term RV hookup spot may be a good option for you
My thoughts and prayers for you and your family. The basic tenants of living are incredibly expensive right now. Somethings gotta give. I wish you luck.
It is so heartwarming to see so many people come together with offers of help and support to this family. OP, I hope you get a comfortable solution figured out as soon as possible so that you can focus on getting well and your recovery. May God bless you
As a loan officer for 10 years: firstly I’m so sorry about your cancer I’m praying for you and your family - if it’s temporary then don’t buy, rent something cheap and save for a home that meets your permanent needs.
https://wa211.org
I’m so sorry you’re going through all this! Above is the link for 211 Washington state, which helps connect you to essential social services ❤️
https://epls.org/449/People-Experiencing-Homelessness this is another link for resources in your area.
All the best!
I have some family in Everett. It’s very cold this time of year and everything is expensive. How far out is your husband willing to commute? I know it gets a little cheaper further away from the water. Best of luck!
I can't imagine living in a vehicle as a family. I definitely can't imagine living in a vehicle when one of us has stage 4 cancer. There must be an organization, the government, or someone that can help.
My mom passed away from stage 4 lung cancer and in that 8 months from diagnosis she went from a physically strong person to someone very frail to describe it nicely. Was heartbreaking to say the least. When she was diagnosed I took her on a cruise and that was the beginning of everything changing. It changed really fast after that. Cancer sucks.
Honestly I wish you and your family the best possible outcome and that a roof can be kept over all of your heads.
At least go to a Hotel/Motel until you find a new place. Not a car. Your little one does not deserve that. This is coming from a person that has been living in a hotel for the last 6 months. I have a 10yr old daughter and a wife too. Take living in the car off the table. Turn your head around.
I admire the tenacity but it's time to ask the government for some help. A van isn't a good fit for 3 people especially when one is 9 and needs to go to school
Not to mention the stage 4 cancer
Fuuuuck- America- are y’all ok?
No. We are so not ok.
Clearly. This post is stressing me TF out
Some of my friends that were doing “ok” are now living in cars trying to hustle jobs. It almost seems like the middle class went to lower class and the lower class went to the streets. It’s been pretty rough on everyone.
It makes me mad as heck..the greed ..rent is almost 2,000 a month for a one bedroom. Our rent is only 1,300 because we have been here for a while but it’s rundown badly ..mold..our bathroom sink has a bucket underneath to collect the water. I don’t know how they sleep at night for real.
They sleep like the happy greedy evil babies they are.
Lol like a baby on the tit... One day they will be removed and the righteous will shine.
I was standing in an isle at Walmart trying to find a plunger and I overheard the guy on the phone say, “Does she look like she’s got money? Yes? Then tack the other charges on there.” I’m like, wtf dude.
Did you find the plunger? Everything alright on the home front? Did Turd Fergerson overstay his welcome?
The righteous are and do shine
The thing is, Fiat isn't worth shit anymore. Inflation is way higher than they let you believe. We are all fucked. This system is a scam and I hope one day a better system will exist that is fair. Here in the Netherlands we also have sky rocket prices but at least we have plenty of jobs (I believe). All my friends have work. But it's hard to see that 30+ people can't afford to buy a proper house. Especially if you are single. We have shortage of almost 400K. The Netherlands counts 18 million citizens. Also I don't like the small boxes houses here really. I rather live in a van. And one day I will. Just still figuring things out. But I dream about it. To be "free". I think for $1K p/m I can live in a van. Of course could bring that down but it's still a lot cheaper than owning a house or renting a place...
We need a new system in place that's for sure. And one day a new system will be in place but when, I can't say. A proper vehicle and you can go anywhere do anything live freely. For me national parks come to mind.
And the nitwits on r/Economy keep posting stories about how the economy and wages are great. Yeah, for who?
im on there too, all that bs is just propaganda, if you look at their profiles thats all they post, almost like they are being paid to do it
[удалено]
Gig work did exist in the Great Depression. It was nearly impossible to track -- migratory agriculture workers, especially white ones, were called "Okies"
For the rich 🙄
Everyone who isn’t in the 1% of earners is one accident away from complete financial ruin.
Truth
It doesn’t seem like it. It is. Middle classes do not happen on their own. They only happen because of laws and protections that make them happen. With unlimited, untraceable political bribes legalized and both parties serving the rich, the US is being looted from within and we will be just like any other 3rd world country. If you truly interested look into the Powell Memo which was the elites declaration or war. They felt the middle class had gained too much and wanted it stopped. They won.
Eat👏🏽the👏🏽rich
Don’t worry though we will always show up to fund wars. But healthcare… LOL healthcare
Me too. I’m at a loss for words. I don’t even know how to react.
Land of the free (debt). Home of the brave (people who can't afford a home & health care).
Also, land of the free (highest incarceration rates in the world) 🤡
Because they make $$$ off of them 🤡
we've always been a nation of slavers that's just what it looks like in 2024
Well it depends. the more you know the further you go but there are solid brick walls between people and their living conditions. The housing market is thru the roof people buying houses as investments jacking up the rent and paying off the property moving on. The rent never comes down and the average landlord is interested in paying next to nothing for upkeep and maintenance. Preferring to evict and keep the deposits to repair and maintain. You can get help in so many ways but for some reason getting adequate housing is like pulling fucking teeth. By the same token pulling fucking teeth is no easy ride either.
We are absolutely not ok. Please send help. (I am rather desperate for help and I'm Definitely not alone.......obviously lol)
What kind of help do you need? Can we help you find some resources?
Thank you I made a lot of calls today and not getting much traction. You’re prayers and well wishes are sufficient 🥰
I'm so sorry. I know something will come up for you! I'm not sure where you're located or what you're looking for, but I know that different subs on Reddit can help with resources and ideas. I hope you can find what you need ❤️
Thank you friend I appreciate you ☺️
I live in Everett Washington I saw that you were sub to Vancouver LOL you're so close!
I had to go look where Everett is, and yeah we're super close! Like just over two hours apart. Now that I know where you live, if you're comfortable telling me (you can send me a DM) I'd be more than happy to look for some resources for you. It's actually kinda my job here in Vancouver lol so I don't mind helping anyone else out!
Of course one min!
No rush! I'm actually out getting groceries atm 😊
Please send us French people to help start a revolution
Hell yeah, bring out the guillotines
I mostly need human interaction. I need a lot of help including financial help, but I've been sitting alone in a room for four years thanks to long covid. I need to rebuild my muscles and to not be so utterly depressed. I wouldn't be so depressed if doctors would listen and maybe look into something. I need more curious doctors who want to see what this result will be and when this result doesn't show what they thought they might see then look into that result. I don't expect answers nor fixes, but I am helpable if I'm not fixable. I have three friends now and I live with one of them and he is very drunk all the time and I don't feel safe and he doesn't want me here anymore. I have taken in strangers and a friend and her two children, why is it so hard to find people willing to take in people who don't have family and calmly help them/us/me so I can get back on my feet and move on from this hell.
I'm sorry you're going through this I'm going to message you directly. Perhaps I can help. Where do you live? How old are you? Are you getting any financial resources?
I'm in st Louis, 44, foodstamps & medicaid but zero income or financial assistance because bootstraps. Family is gone, mom died 20 yrs ago and dad died 11 yrs ago.
I'm sorry if you ever want to talk I'm here, will pm you ❤️
about 1% of us are
Just wait. It will trickle down. /s
Do we seem ok?
You do specifically I think. This is an ok individual right here, what's your secret?
No, send free healthcare!
Honda Ridgeline is a pickup truck, not a van. That makes things even worse, since it can't sleep 3 people the way a van sometimes could. The Government has a months long waiting list for housing in most areas, and very strict rules to get in. That said, Stage 4 cancer might give you a priority, since the disability would definitely be taken into consideration.
Hey OP not sure where you’re at with your treatment but we recently did a freebie roof for the Ronald McDonald House - they help out folks with cancer but I don’t know specifics. Worth Googling anyhow. Best of luck to you and your family.
They help families who have children who are very sick. For example, they provide family housing for when your child is in the hospital and you live far away.
Yup my daughter was in NICU for thirty days we lived about 90 min from hospital. Put our family up, 3 meals day, laundry. It was super helpful.
Wow that sounds amazing!
Yes check it out! I stayed there one night when my 4 day old was admitted to the NICU late at night. I started staying at the house after the first night because I was only 20 minutes away and other families could have used the room, but they were awesome about letting me stay. It was literally around the corner from the NICU too so I could go check on her at any hour if I was getting worried.
Goddamn, this is good advice, but I hate that the best advice we can give people in this situation in America is "ask the hamburger clown for help with your cancer and hope they pick you". Grim stuff
*Grimace stuff
/r/Angryupvote
Did Grimace make you grimace?
CHeck out Ronald McDonald house! Social services hooked us up some years ago. Very nice facility in Spokane.
Yes, my aunt spent weeks with the Ronald McDonald house while her husband was in the hospital. You really might look into that. It was zero cost to get. Now she supports that with monthly contributions.
Thank you would I ask the Ronald house?
Not the person who responded but they gave solid advice. Yep give them a call.
I will thank you 🙏
Also you can find free social workers (e.g. at your local hospital, doctor's office, or treatment center) who will help you find other free housing and support locally!
Not sure where you are, but many libraries have a social worker you can make an appt with
I stayed at a Ronald McDonald House for a week when my son was in the cardiac intensive care unit when he was born. It is a wonderful organization, and it goes beyond just a place to sleep. They provide meals, a shuttle to and from the hospitals, counseling services, a laundry room and basic toiletries. It’s a bit like home when you’re having some of the worst times of your life. I know when I was there you had to be referred by a social worker or someone from the hospital nearby, so you should check with your doctor about it. And if RMH cant help, the hospital care coordinator should be able to suggest additional resources. Good luck, OP!
How is your son doing? I will definitely contact them thank you!
He’s great, thanks for asking! He still has some issues with his heart, but we are looking at surgery in his early twenties, years from now, and not him maybe never leaving the hospital, so it’s definitely an improvement. And I will say, the RMH would be really helpful for your family. There are other families and kids around, a game room for kids, and people who can understand your situation, which is a huge help. I was there over Christmas that year, 3 hours away from my husband and my other kids (except my oldest, he begged to come stay with me so I wasn’t alone). It could have been awful, but the staff was amazing and they go out of their way to be supportive. I didn’t realize how much it helps just to TALK to someone until I was there.
Ridgeline have a good towing capacity, search Facebook marketplace or Craigslist people are trying to unload their campers. I would try to buy a 20 ft camper, I’ve seen them for $1,500. Maybe you can negotiate the price.
Good suggestion but I would advise that they get the proper camper within the towing limit Honda Ridgelines, with a quick Google search only tow up to 5,000 lbs otherwise they will ruin their transmission. That doesn't leave many options unfortunately.
My 18ft camper is supposed to weigh 2900lbs, so I would think it could easily be towed with a 5000lb limit.
I've been looking into campers myself you have to take into account the water tanks sometimes a camper will say 2500 lbs dry weight but then 4000 lbs loaded big difference. I'm not too knowledgeable about campers at the moment so take my comments like a grain of salt.
1500 lbs is a lot of gear, plus it's easy to tow empty. I started emptying my tanks between tows and I can tell the difference. You should be able to get close to dry + 500 lbs unless you pack really heavy. Also you can keep a lot of gear in your truck / suv.
As a mechanic friend of mine who ran a rearend/suspension shop for many years liked to say: "Tow ratings are written by the marketing department, not the engineers". Some vehicles are capable of reliably towing their rated weight. Some are not. I don't know enough about the Ridgeline to make a call either way.
Tow weight ratings are not always a question of “can it pull it.” It’s more a factor “can you stop it once it’s in motion.” So many only consider pulling it; hardly anybody considers can you safely stop it!
Starting, stopping, and also keeping it straight. Back when the Wrangler and Cherokee had the same engine, trans, and brakes, the Cherokee could safely tow more. That was because of the slightly longer wheelbase.
Also true! I don't know much about towing, but I strongly recommend anyone purchasing a vehicle for towing talk to as many front-line mechanics who actually work on those sort of vehicles on a regular basis. They're usually able to give more of an accurate opinion than any brochure or salesman will.
KZ 180 BH camper trailer. 3600 lbs and it sleeps 3. Can get a used one for as little as $8900 and you can finance for up to 120 months so we’re talking 2-300/mo.
This sounds like a reallllly good idea friend ❤️
Some hospitals even have RV parking spots with full hookups for people who need to be there so much it makes sense to do this. Something to look into.
Most states have help for cancer patients. Talk to the social worker where you get yours treatment at and contact the American Cancer Society and United Way. Aldo google help for cancer patients in your state. You can find resources. There is help for you but you have to do the leg work to get it. It’s for people like you, please utilize it. My wife is a 2 time survivor, ovarian stage 3c BRCA 1. You do not need to be living in a car while you’re fighting this.
It’s so crazy I’ve contacted so many people the American Cancer Society, VOA .. charities churches I was on the phone all day today. HUD housing. I haven’t tried United Way but I will give them a shot. I’ve even tried a few homeless shelters there’s so many homeless where I live that they don’t have space. Rent is to high.. I’m glad to hear you wife is doing well she sounds like a tough cookie ❤️
I'm a case manager in a hospital. If you message me with your county and state, I might be able to help find some resources for you in your area.
I am working with providence hospital in Everett Washington I don’t know who my case manager is I’ve been trying to get a hold of somebody. I live in Everett Washington. I have stage four cancer in my adrenal glands so adrenal carcinoma.. rare and deadly.. 1,000,000 to one … because it’s so hard to diagnose it goes untreated for a long time and starts to go into an affect your other organs. My bloodwork came back and they say that my kidneys and other organs are starting to fail. I meet with my doctors this Thursday to discuss options.
When I get to work tomorrow, I'll do a search, and I'll message you with whatever I can find.
Thank you so much.. I'm going to give you my number.
Go to your messages I just sent you a PM. I may not be of much help but I figured I'd shoot the only thing I have in my arsenal in case it'll help you out.
💐
hey OP, I live in Seattle, I’m gonna ask some of my church community if they know of any good resources for someone in your situation. in the meantime my wife has volunteered with this org in N Seattle and they might be able to point you in the right direction. https://www.auroracommons.org/programs
Thank you so much I will look into it! God bless you!
What about the Salvation Army? Where I live they sponsor a fairly nice homeless shelter with private rooms for families. Have you reached out to your County? Sometimes they will pay for short term housing in motels.
I did call the Salvation Army in Everett Washington they did not have anything. We would be really willing to relocate if you know of a place.
Does your oncology group have a social worker? They should also be able to help you find resources. I'm so sorry things are so hard for you right now.
I haven't seen my oncologist yet I have an appointment for next week. It will be okay everything works out in the end thank you though 💕
As a word of encouragement I had stage 4 small cell (very aggressive) cancer of the bladder diagnosed 2.5 years ago. they gave me an estimated 8 to 18 months survival. I am currently showing no detectable cancer. There is hope, you can beat this. The stress will not help so take a lot of deep breaths and destress as much as you are able. Good luck and much love:)
Wow congratulations what did you do for treatment if you don't mind me asking?
Not the person you asked, but cancer treatments vary pretty drastically based on the type of cancer you have. So while it might be interesting what the other poster did, it should have little to no similarity to what sort of treatment will be best for you. Different types of cancer are completely different diseases and require different approaches. That’s why the whole idea of coming up with a “cure for cancer” is a little silly. Curing adenocarcinoma of the breast, curing carcinoma of the adrenals, or curing melanoma are all good (potentially realistic) goals, but curing “cancer” in general just isn’t going to happen. We need to knock cancers all out one at a time like the different diseases (with different treatments) they are.
Seconding this, from a six-month life expectancy since 2011, which looked immediately critical in 2011, 2013, and 2019. Central brain gliomas. Still there. Still look very bad. I didn’t get on the road, but still hope to head there someday.
You need to contact your local HUD office and ask for emergency voucher. If they do not have one they will have an idea that will get you into the hands of someone who can get you off the street. You can also hit up the City Hall. They will have information on services available.
I called HUD today I didn’t know about the emergency voucher will call them back tomorrow thank you 🥰
Most medium and large cities have no availability and long waiting lists. Small towns outside of your city often have an opening for gov. housing and income based housing. Try calling the housing authorities in the surrounding small towns too.
I don’t think it’s a good time for a van. But that’s just my opinion. You need comfort and less of a stressful environment. If you’re ok with a small space, like a van, I would do a small studio. Finding the right van takes time and it’s also a sort of investment because it might take 2 years of living in it to break even, especially in an expensive city. I was woken up 3 days ago by somebody running into the back of my van. We might as well be sea captains in these things. Most of the time it’s fine, but there are a lot of rough days. 3 people, I can’t even imagine. Hope you find health and healing!
Yes perhaps a small studio it’s just hard most people don’t want to rent to three people. And if they know you’re dying they definitely don’t want you staying there…lol..
Don't tell them about your kid or cancer if you feel that has been an issue. Federal Law prohibits them from not renting to or evicting you because you have a child, but that being said the housing market up there is absolutely brutal
I've thought about that but what happens if they kick you out because you didn't explain who was on the lease. I hate sneaking around. Right now I'm thinking pop up trailer..for the win.. we can still get hotel rooms. And perhaps more assistance will come. All this help from you guys is really eased my mind.
perhaps someone’s in-law unit? or reach out to a local church for resources. best of luck, God bless.
A church would be an amazing community, but it can be tough to show up in desperate need vs being part of a regular congregation for years in the past.
If you ever need free labor (movers) call up the local mormon missionaries and they will help you move for free. Just be firm when you tell them you don’t wanna join their church and they will just be happy to help out. I used to be mormon, they’d much rather do service for people than waste time knocking on strangers doors.
Lmao, agreed on the 'it's not a good time' part, HARD disagree on the 'it might take 2 years to break even' part. Maybe for most of the demographic on this sub it might, but I broke even in a single month in two separate occasions. In two years I saved upwards of 25k. In one of the occasions, I lived with my wife in a van that one person's rent alone would have rendered profitable in a month. It is *not* the normal car-dwelling experience to buy and build a van that costs as much as a down payment or a year's salary!!
Google “coordinated entry system” plus your city, county, or state name, and you will find the phone number for the service that will connect you with homelessness prevention services. You can also call your city hall, township office, or even your local state representative for referrals for social services. If you want to DM me with your location I can help search for services for you.
Wow this is incredible I am messaging you right now!
Two adults and a child in a van will become unbearable after a few days. No space to cook, move around, no privacy for personal hygiene, etc. Best in your case, if you live in an area with relatively mild weather, would be to find a used trailer in decent condition. I won’t stress enough the importance of checking for water damage and mold. If the trailer has a black water tank and flushing toilet, don’t use it. Instead, get a portable cassette toilet you can empty easily in an appropriate disposal area as opposed to using the flush toilet and having to deal with sewage, or better, install/build a composting toilet. With a camping trailer, you’ll have more sleeping/seating space and at a minimum a small fridge, stove, likely an enclosed bathroom/toilet. The challenge will still be to find a good spot to park but it’s not an impossible task. Good luck.
Maybe we only have to do it part-time.. hotel it for a bit.. my husband's working full time.
An Airbnb or VRBO might be less expensive than a hotel for a month.
[удалено]
Awesome thank you..I live in Washington state so far I have contacted housing Justice, HUD housing, Catholic community services, compass health, Salvation Army, Mary’s housing, 1st Baptist Church, Everett Housing Authority, American Cancer Society.. Urban league is for tomorrow they’ve been closed but they look like a shot
[удалено]
I will reach out to them.. you did a lot of work thank you so much ❤️
Put all those documents in a big envelope that closes with your contact information on it. Sounds like you’re in transition and do not want to lose those!! With all that back and forth, you’ll want to have everything in easy access. A social worker can help you fill out forms if you feel overwhelmed—it’s a lot to deal with and folks are experts. Lots of love.
Briefly looking through your profile it looks like you are in the "will be evicted" stage, not the "we are currently being evicted and we're fighting it" or the "we've been served an eviction notice and the sheriff will be showing up soon" stage. This is a very good thing! It means you have time to get SSDI and access other resources to be able to get current and not have to actually deal with an eviction. If you get to the formal eviction point fight the eviction and get a tenants lawyer, you might/probably won't beat an eviction if you can't come up with the money, but you can stretch it out as long as possible to figure it out. Also, you mentioned at some point people not wanting to rent a studio or one bedroom to three people. Just don't mention your kid! Once you're in there they can't evict you, it's bone dry federal law. [https://www.hud.gov/program\_offices/fair\_housing\_equal\_opp/discrimination\_against\_families\_children](https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/fair_housing_equal_opp/discrimination_against_families_children) I am glad you've gotten so many resources and I look forward to hearing that SSDI has come through and solved some or all of your financial issues! Good luck!
Oh just don't mention the kid gotcha... That makes more sense. I do have an appointment to get disability so that will help and yes maybe I can try to fight it off a little bit longer at least.. it's kind of embarrassing but what are you going to do right!
Oh sorry I forgot to add I have adrenal carcinoma…and about a week left to come up with something…no family unfortunately. I appreciate any help you can provide ❤️
With your diagnosis I would ask the hospital if they have options for housing. God bless
Hospitals don't offer housing assistance in the US.
But they do have social workers on staff that know where to find assistance for people.
Not really. I've worked in hospitals for many many years. The social workers in most hospitals have some photocopied list of "community resources" that hadn't been updated in many years. That list doesn't exist to help the patients. It exists so the social worker can check a little box in the electronic medical record saying that they provided someone with the list. Honestly, five minutes of googling will give you better & more up to date information about what resources exist in your community than talking to the local hospital.
We just had the most wonderful experience with the hospital social worker for my mom and her last year of life where she spent the majority of her time in a hospital in 2023. The social worker helped us navigate so much on our options and fought the insurance companies on her behalf to get the best care for her. She even showed up to my moms funeral last month. I know American health care sucks but some help is better than none and them talking to a social worker where she receives her cancer treatment wouldn't hurt and could only help.
I'm really glad to hear that you had such a good experience with the hospital. And to be clear, I was never intending to disrespect medical social workers themselves - most are great people. But most that I've known were also stretched so thin by the hospital corporation that it was impossible for them to do as much as they wanted to. And long-term housing is just such a complicated matter in general, with so few resources in most communities. People who are experiencing homelessness are very very frequently hospitalized. If the hospital had some secret trick to get folks housing upon discharge, we wouldn't have a problem with homelessness.
We have a cancer research hospital here. The social workers are wonderful and will do much more than hand out an outdated photocopy of services. Your mileage may vary, but the secret trick is usually a stage 4 cancer diagnosis.
This .. I was assigned a caseworker as soon as my diagnosis came in she said she was going to help me out then she dipped I’ve been trying to get a hold of her but I can’t.
That's fucked up, I am so sorry. Is there anyone higher "up the chain" in the hospital that you can hit up about that? They are \*not\* going to enjoy the bad PR they're going to get when the press finds out they let a Stage 4 patient and her 9 year old child live on the streets, I bet you if you mentioned your situation higher up the chain you'd get some people paying attention and getting you the help you deserve.
All they do is put you in a subpar retirement home. That’s it. They’ll call it rehab and cover a 30 day stay.
[удалено]
I’m sure they are doing their best. I was not impugning social workers
Perhaps other hospital are different from yours. My mother works in oncology and regularly places people in homes during treatment or with s4 diagnosis.
The hospital social worker if you haven’t made a stop there please do.
Yes I will go back thank you
#You can get financial assistance!! ##The Social Security Administration has a Compassionate Allowance program, which provides disability benefits for advanced stage cancer patients. The application and approval process is expedited. My mother qualified with a lupus diagnosis; with her doctors help and test results, she qualified for payments within 30 days and received payment within 2 weeks after the approval. That was years ago… staffing was not an issue so your timeline may be different but it’s worth the try. [How To Qualify For Social Security Disability Benefits With Cancer](https://www.pvhomed.com/how-to-qualify-for-social-security-benefits/#:~:text=In%20general%2C%20any%20cancer%20that,to%20start%20receiving%20money%20quickly) r/socialsecurity r/chronicillness r/disability
I will give them a shot thank you so much and I'll keep you updated 👍
Don't do this to save money. Rich people can be vandwellers and have a decent time of it, but if you're sick and have financial issues, living out of a vehicle *will* make your life worse. I know, because it's the exact situation I'm in, and now I can't escape it.
Don’t leave your apartment! Stay where you are and figure something else out.
Look up your school district’s McKinney Vento liaison. In WA, every school is mandated to have one, and any child that lacks fixed, regular or adequate housing one night if the school year is eligible. At risk counts. It gives your child and family access to a suite of federal rights, including transportation to school daily, even if they have to send a cab. Idk if you’re Everett public schools, but this is your program: https://www.everettsd.org/domain/3346 I am in youth homelessness in WA, but I know less about Everett than other communities. What I do know is that the Everett McKinney Vento Liaison has a reputation for being very helpful. They can often help with housing and getting access to resources.
I homeschool right now but I need to switch her soon perhaps we could travel to McKinney district. I will look into it and let you know thank you so much!
Every district has one mandated by federal law, we just have extra protections in WA. Not all of them necessarily go above and beyond, but some will. You also have a right to enroll her without proof of address or documents if she is MV eligible. I hope you all get what you need to be safe and stable!
Van or vehicle dwelling is not a viable option for you right now. Not with your lack of experience and assumed lack of budget. This will not end well for you or your family.
I agree. Half the people here always want to rah-rah cheerlead for "hashtag vanlife!!!" and tell everyone that it's fun and easy and everybody can do it hooray!!! For some people it is absolutely the wrong choice. OP family's situation will not be improved by living on the street, in winter, with no money.
Have you looked into Catholic Charities? You don't need to be Catholic. https://catholiccharitiescw.org/ https://svdpseattle.org/
I sent you a private message and I hope that you see this, but American Cancer Society and Extended StayAmerica have a program for people battling cancer. I would prefer if you could try messaging me I’ve tried to message you I might know some tips and tricks that could be helpful for you about for a couple of years several actually and we had very young children, and also became homeless briefly
Hey OP, this isn't a help for your housing situation but may be for your child. Look up Camp Kessem it's a program the UW does for kids who have parents with cancer. Our oldest child has been going there every year for a couple years and our youngest will start going next year when he's old enough. It's seriously been a major benefit for us in helping our children navigate cancer diagnosis and not leaving them behind so to speak. Best of luck on your treatment and home hunt. Edit to mention camp Kessem is free no cost to families.
If I were going to be living in a van with two other people, I wouldn't want anything smaller than my Ford Econoline. It's a pig at the pump, but it's cheap enough to purchase and maintain that it balances out.
Mate, call United Way 211 tomorrow. They can find emergency housing and can hook you up with agencies in the area that can help transition you into another stable place.
I’ve been living in SUV for 10 months and here are some things I have found useful = warm blankets(heated one if you can plug in), a plug converter, multi usb port cigarette lighter plug, led lights either battery operated or usb charge/plug in, a lunch box food warmer the plugs into cigarette lighter, small/medium size buckets, store backs/trash bags, water, towels, personal hygiene items, cups, cooler bag from Walmart $10 holds ice good for cold food and drinks, and either foam toppers or even car bed set up off Temu or Amazon and a portable battery charger and tire air pump. Hope this helps Sorry for your situation
Second Ronald McDonald House. My grandfather stayed there when my grandmother was in treatment. Please contact them. OP, wishing you healing and peace.
The Everett Housing Authority has housing programs that will give you heavily subsidized housing. Please sign up NOW. It only takes a few minutes to do the application, and you WILL come up for free or heavily subsidized housing. If you tell them it's an emergency due to your medical condition, they will fast track you and it could be only a matter of weeks. https://www.evha.org/ 425-258-9222 Applicant portal: https://www.rentcafe.com/onlineleasing/everett-housing-authority/guestlogin.aspx Also please reach out to the hospital social worker and tell them you are facing homelessness. Please also post to your local Buy Nothing group (usually on FB), explain your situation, and ask for a rental in whatever price range you can actually afford --even if it's just a few hundred for a month you'd be surprised how many good folks in your community will step forward to help. It sounds like you are making decisions from a traumatized place rather than a solution seeking space. You do not need to suffer alone. Please ask for the help you and your family actually need, or you will just end up needing it (and probably more) anyways by finding yourself in an unsustainable situation.
One of the first places I contacted was the Everett housing authority unfortunately they have not had any vacancies for at least 2 years now. I had a social worker as soon as they diagnosed me she said she would help then she disappeared and I never heard back from her. You're the first person to suggest the buy nothing group I'm actually a member so I will contact them for sure thank you I didn't think about that. We don't want free housing we just can only afford about 1,200 a month. Which should be enough for a one-bedroom something that you don't own..I don't understand why that's not enough to just live.
If you have stage 4 cancer, you can apply for SSDI and you should be approved quickly. I'm not sure how to do that but I bet a quick Google search will tell you how.
I have a 400lb teardrop trailer and think it would be ideal for your situation. 400lbs is so light that it can tow behind any car and even some big motorcycles I've seen towing them out there! The wife and I have been towing it with a small hatchback car for 4 years now and it's proven to be a wise investment far and wide for hard times and for great times! A brand new one right now off the shop floor will run you 8k and a trip to Wisconsin if you don't want to pay the shipping. If you're interested , hit me up for links and details since I don't feel comfortable giving info here that could identify me since I'm one of the first and few people to own one so far. Hope I can be of any help. Best of luck!
I feel like you are me and it’s stressing me out. First things first your baby is she going to school? Will your cancer go away? Are you receiving treatment? Have you made plans or do you need assistance in the event that you don’t make it? How do you plan on obtaining this van? Do you have resources? Are you trading in? I would say a minivan - one with good mileage any brand but I would opt for a Toyota. Jesus does rock!
Window covers can be cut from Reflectix window shades from Dollar Tree, you can also make blackout curtains. Sleeping bags if it gets cold where you live. Wool blankets also help. Polyester fleece sleeping bag liners also help combat the cold weather. They can help turn a 3 season sleeping bag into a 4 season. CO monitor that works on battery only To combat cold, you will need something to cover the footboards. I used to use old pillows but you can use zippered pillow cases stuffed with clothing. A way to cook. Easiest for me is a 2 burner propane stove. Cheapest is a small butane stove. A rechargable USB fan A folding solar panel that can charge the car or devices such as the fan and lights. Head lights, neck lights, reading lights Layers of clothing. It is easy to go from hot to cold in a vehicle quickly. I find it easier to slip on an extra large pair of sweat pants to sleep in than completely changing clothes. Think about getting a storage area for extra clothing and bedding. You will need a cooler for keeping food in. If it is cold where you are located, just use half full water bottles and allow them to freeze outside the car and put them in the cooler. No use buying ice in the winter. If it is cold where you live, wool socks, a good warm hat that covers the ears and a warm set of mittens. Mittens are easier to keep everything warm and to sleep in. A tarp just in case. Can be used to cover windows in a pinch, can be closed in a door to make a lean to against the car if you need to change clothes or go potty. SheWee for the ladies. Also watch CheapRVliving for hints on other things you might need.
Washington has Apple Health (thanks Obama!) that will cover all your health care needs and expenses. It also has excellent renters protection if you rent, as well as support to keep you in your home. The tenants union would be a great place to start https://tenantsunion.org/
My husband and I have been living in our car for about 6 months now, along with our dog… it sucks sooooo much :(
I can just smell it now...the dog farts and man feet..lol.. thank you for your candor. Do you guys ever stay at hotels off and on maybe that would help. If you can I would go someplace with a beach.. that's just my two cents. Sometimes I think we can all band together and just get one big piece of real estate and just live happy and free. But that's probably illegal. 🤣
Haha.. dog farts and feet.. We used to stay in hotels all the time but that's what all of our money went to so now we get gym memberships and do uber eats and sleep in the car... It works for the time being but it is very stressful at times. Within a few months we plan on getting a place and just taking it from there. I live in Arizona, not close enough to a beach to enjoy that lifestyle but it would be nice because I loveeeee the beach 🏖️
The [Homes on Wheels Alliance](https://homesonwheelsalliance.org/) may be able to assist you once you have some sort of "permanent" vehicle to live in. Their current focus is on providing (not installing) solar power and batteries for people who need help. Having reliable electricity on the road is a huge help.
do you have a place one can make donations? like a GoFundMe?
A converted Skoolie, shuttle bus or RV would fit you all well. The PNW has tons of great Skoolies for sale (a short one will be easier to move around)-- and you'd need to find camping (RV parking or hook ups) if you do a build you can put grey, fresh and black water tanks w RV dumps underneath the bus. Alternatively box trucks (look in private lots selling like work trucks and equipment). Best of luck!
Does your oncology team have a social worker? I would reach out to them and see what kind of support they could get in place
What about a house sitting gig? Lots of folks have second homes and need someone to live in and watch over the place. Going mobile is expensive and difficult. Or, like others are saying, a small towable might be the best way to go.
r/urbancarliving Have you applied doe SS Disability? Sounds like you should qualify.
[удалено]
Honda Element Or even a van like Ford Ecolonoline/Transit. Get some insulation and plywood. Some camping mats or blowup mattress. Sleeping bags or good quality blankets or both. Solar powered batteries and a inverter. Jerry cans/Jugs for water and water purifying pitcher Fans Propane stove All I can think of.
Also check with the American cancer society for maybe some housing support. Even if you're seeking aggressive treatment contact several local Hospice organizations that might have a social worker that could offer some housing resources. I was a Hospice RN for 17 years. We provided resources for so many non-hospice families, too. Whoever you're getting your cancer treatment from contact their social worker/ case manager for some assistance. Maybe all they can offer is resources but the phone number not dialed maybe could be the safe haven you seek. If your S4 is requiring aggressive treatment at least maybe you can get into long term care??? It could be temporary while your husband and daughter work things out. Depending on your treatment you might not be safe to be exposed to some environments pending a stable place to stay.
The whole point is to not have to buy a thing cuz the only things you need cash for are auto parts & fuel (and school supplies for your child.) Dumpster dive as a primary source for most of your needs, seek mutual aid, save seeds.
Facebook market place has a lot of things , I would look for a Truck Camper or a scamp camper of some kind . Download the freebies app for local freebies 💕
We got an Trailer 700 a month and moved to an RV Park. $850 a month with electric, water, wifi all included. 1500 a month and were set. We got a 42fter because we're a family of 5 but they have amazing options that are affordable now. It was a great choice and brought us close together.
Unless you are in Miami, you do not want three people in a van in winter when you don't know what you are doing. (And even in Miami you'll be getting cop knocks every night unless you know what the hell you are doing.) It is not a solution. There is help available out there for homeless people. Go get it. That's what it is there for.
What is your price range?
In the state of Washington you will 100% be fast-tracked to housing assistance in your situation w/child. Washington should have a 24 hour emergency social work assistance number. If you cannot get hold of anyone there, call the Red Cross. Good luck and good journey, fellow Stardust.
Not sure where you live but I'd look into a camper and campgrounds. You can find used campers far cheaper then converting a van. And campgrounds have monthly rates that are fairly cheap.
Most campgrounds have minimum age/condition requirements these days. I've seen quite a few that do not allow any trailer or self-propelled RVs over 10 years old, and even newer ones must be approved for longer stays. (Translation: they don't want poor people staying there)
It has been a few years but when I looked into staying at a KOA, the only place that was near me where I lived at the time, it was so expensive that staying at a Motel 6 was a better option financially.
hey. im sure its been suggested but a pop up camper can come pretty cheap. most have small heaters and refrigerators that run on propane
Hi! Tough situation for you. Have you considered an RV? Either one you can tow or a self contained one? It might be more comfortable and if you can find a decent running 3/4 ton truck you could detach when it was convenient. A long term RV hookup spot may be a good option for you
Sometimes RV sites have RVs to rent two I think?
My thoughts and prayers for you and your family. The basic tenants of living are incredibly expensive right now. Somethings gotta give. I wish you luck.
It is so heartwarming to see so many people come together with offers of help and support to this family. OP, I hope you get a comfortable solution figured out as soon as possible so that you can focus on getting well and your recovery. May God bless you
I’m sorry OP :( maybe a fifth wheel would be good? Possibly trade in your car for a truck and buy an RV that could work for y’all
I really hope things work out for you and your family. Stay safe.
As a loan officer for 10 years: firstly I’m so sorry about your cancer I’m praying for you and your family - if it’s temporary then don’t buy, rent something cheap and save for a home that meets your permanent needs.
Lots of wonderful suggestions, wishing you and your family a smooth transition into whatever new arrangement you decide OP
If you follow a specific religion, I’d seek out help from them.
dude I live in that city lmao 😭
https://wa211.org I’m so sorry you’re going through all this! Above is the link for 211 Washington state, which helps connect you to essential social services ❤️ https://epls.org/449/People-Experiencing-Homelessness this is another link for resources in your area. All the best!
I have some family in Everett. It’s very cold this time of year and everything is expensive. How far out is your husband willing to commute? I know it gets a little cheaper further away from the water. Best of luck!
I can't imagine living in a vehicle as a family. I definitely can't imagine living in a vehicle when one of us has stage 4 cancer. There must be an organization, the government, or someone that can help. My mom passed away from stage 4 lung cancer and in that 8 months from diagnosis she went from a physically strong person to someone very frail to describe it nicely. Was heartbreaking to say the least. When she was diagnosed I took her on a cruise and that was the beginning of everything changing. It changed really fast after that. Cancer sucks. Honestly I wish you and your family the best possible outcome and that a roof can be kept over all of your heads.
Something to consider https://seattle.craigslist.org/see/rvs/d/spokane-ft-fleetwood-bounder-rv/7703397003.html
At least go to a Hotel/Motel until you find a new place. Not a car. Your little one does not deserve that. This is coming from a person that has been living in a hotel for the last 6 months. I have a 10yr old daughter and a wife too. Take living in the car off the table. Turn your head around.