On Jan. 8, I was accepted at a homeless shelter in Augusta. I had been homeless since Oct. 31, 2025, so this news felt like a blessing. It meant no more nights outside and less uncertainty about my safety. I believed I was on a path toward stability.

I spent one night at the shelter. The following day , I slipped on ice and broke my leg.

I contacted the shelter and spoke with management. I explained my situation and informed her of my injury. She told me she would consult with her supervisor, as she did not believe I could continue staying at the shelter. She called back and informed me I was being discharged because my discharge instructions required that I elevate my leg and avoid putting weight on it.

I explained that I could manage my condition without assistance. I expected understanding and compassion during such a vulnerable moment; instead, I experienced the opposite. The primary concern expressed was my inability to complete daily chores, rather than my immediate and urgent need for shelter while recovering from a serious injury.

I am currently staying at a warming shelter, where my medical needs are being accommodated more compassionately than they were at the shelter.

I share this experience in the hope that it encourages discussion and reflection on how our community supports individuals who are homeless and facing unexpected medical emergencies.

Ashley Grondin
Augusta