Shannon Carlson has a passion for art, writing and styling hair − but people don’t often see that when they pass her on the street.
At first glance, all they can tell is that Carlson is homeless.
She’s bounced in and out of homelessness for 17 years. Though she’s owned a home in the past, struggles with domestic and sexual abuse and mental health have kept her from living in a place more permanent.
Carlson was among the homeless in Ames surveyed by the Bridge Home on Aug. 1. The non-profit records the homeless population of the “Two Rivers Region” —Boone, Greene, Hardin, Marshall, and Story counties—twice a year.
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A helping hand even in a time of need
Carlson tries to make the best of her situation by helping others who are also homeless. She will often find herself returning lost items to their owners, giving away her own belongings, or directing people to key resources like the Bridge Home.