The Real Adam’s Place

Michael Hartridge

The photos taken during Street Sense’s visit to Adams Place Shelter for the article “Single Adults’ Voices Finally Heard?” in the previous edition painted an untrue image of the real Adams Place Shelter. This is what the management and staff didn’t want you to see.

I stayed at Adam’s Place Emergency Shelter often from late November 2012 until last month. In the homeless community, Adam’s Place is labeled as the best shelter by many. I have experienced the overcrowding, violence and smell of other city shelters – and can understand this viewpoint, by comparison. Regardless, Adam’s Place does not grant residents the security or dignity it should.

On Wednesday, March 3 I testified at a hearing at the Wilson Building about shelter conditions for single adults. I presented these photos and more, which documented sleeping shelter staff, filthy facilities and my own written correspondence with Catholic Charities’ administration. The room of advocates, which included the Department of Human Services’ staff and city council members, grew silent. No one approached me to help solve these concerns. I’ve also documented footage of shelter staff cursing at groups of residents. They treat us like cattle.

The Department of General Services has an office dedicated to managing shelter complaints, but all too many are “solved internally” and complaints don’t make it that far. This city is taking strides to end homelessness, but there will always be some people in need of emergency shelter at some time. I used to wear suits every day for work. I never thought I’d be in this position.

I’ve been set back by health issues while continuing my job search over the past three years. But I’ve also invested this time in creating change for District shelter residents. It’s important. Other people made sacrifices so that this city would guarantee me a bed when the temperature reached below 32 degrees fahrenheit. Having benefited from these services, I owe it to the next guy to pay it forward.

Days after I testified at the Wilson Building hearing, Adam’s Place residents labeled me a “snitch” and the staff looked for excuses to kick me out. Luckily, it has been warm enough so I no longer have to stay there. We did have a 21 degree night since then, but thankfully I was able to find shelter with St. Luke’s for a night. I am receiving two new truck driving certifications this month, and hope to be employed and no longer need the shelter system next winter.

Mr. Hartridge submitted more photos than could fit in our newspaper, more will accompany the online article. Michael Hartridge documents the treatment of homeless persons in the District on channel that can be found by searching “ihomeless.com” on YouTube.

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180 people stay at Adam’s Place on a hypothermia day, when the temperature drops below 32 degrees fahrenheit. But we are not allowed to use the dormitories during that time and are confined to a small social area and a loft above it. Many clients prefer to look for food and comfort elsewhere.


Issues |Housing|Living Unsheltered


Region |Washington DC

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