I witnessed an American tragedy last week. An attorney with Rutter Mills is representing a homeless client in her 50s for Social Security Disability. She was recently taken to a local homeless shelter in Norfolk by the some police officers. She was able to stay as long as she was seeking work. (Remember -- she is disabled.) She tried to find a job with a local fast food restaurant but they would not hire her. The attorney was able to get the hearing expedited due to her situation but she still would not have her day in court for several weeks. She asked the homeless shelter if they would let her stay until her hearing, but they let her go nonetheless.

This poor hopeful but helpless person appeared at her hearing dirty and disheveled but hopeful. After the hearing, the attorney could not bear to leave her at the same bus stop from which she was picked up. He called at least 13 shelters and churches in the Hampton Roads area looking for a place for her to stay the night. Not one homeless shelter or church would take her in. In fact, one church claimed it was too bad she didn’t have any family to go to and no one to help her but it wasn’t their problem and ended the conversation with "God bless you."

In the end, this homeless and family-less person decided she would rather spend the night with her "friends" on the street, than accept a charitable handout. Fortunately, once she wins her Social Security disability case, she will be eligible for Section 8 housing and a new start. Rutter Mills cares about their clients – we only wish everyone had the same compassion.