Man Spots Homeless Woman Near His Home, Chooses to Construct a Tiny House for Her

Elvis Summers has devised an effective solution to homelessness, bringing joy to many who are homeless.

Countless individuals are forced to spend their days and nights on the streets. Regrettably, society often ignores the issue of homelessness. These individuals lack a roof over their heads and are unfamiliar with a proper meal. Mere change is insufficient to alter their plight; they require food, shelter, and healthcare.

Elvis Summers, who encountered Smokie daily, was moved to act upon seeing the 60-year-old living on the streets, unable to bear the thought of her sleeping in the dirt.

Irene "Smokie" McGee's presence was a constant near Elvis' residence. Their friendship began when she knocked on his door one day, seeking recyclables.

While the neighbors were warm and caring, they retired to their comfortable beds each night, leaving Smokie alone on the streets. After her husband's death in 2004, she was left to navigate a harsh world alone, without the financial means to maintain her home.

"I began to inquire more about her life to understand her situation," Summers recounted. "I discovered she owned nothing, not even a cardboard box. She was quite literally sleeping on the ground, and I felt compelled to create a space for her where she could be comfortable and sleep well at night."

In 2015, Elvis learned about an Oakland man who built small houses from leftover materials. It was the perfect solution! Smokie deserved a home, and Elvis set out to create one. He invested $500 in hardware and lumber. Within five days, Elvis finished the shelter. Smokie finally had a home after ten years.

"I had no place to build it, so I constructed it on the street outside my apartment," Elvis shared with Good News Network. "The local LAPD officers have been incredibly supportive, allowing it as long as it's moved every 72 hours."

A time-lapse video showcases all the features of Smokie's new abode, including sturdy wheels for easy moving and a large window. It was secure with two locks and spacious enough for her needs.

"I feel wonderful," Smokie expressed to ABC News. "It's indescribable. I'm heading towards a new life. I aim to secure my own place and more. He's my guardian angel, truly one in a million."

Passersby showed interest in renting the place, with some inquiring about the price. "A mother sleeps in the dirt, and yet some only see an opportunity for profit," Elvis captioned his video.

The Tiny House Project

Initiating the Tiny House Project with Smokie's home was a wonderful beginning to a new endeavor. Elvis's YouTube channel features numerous videos where he constructs homes and supports the homeless in LA. Smokie was the inaugural recipient of a new home, serving as a profound inspiration to Elvis.

"I've encountered so many homeless individuals, all good people," Elvis recounted. "Ever since I built Smokie's home, numerous people have approached me to construct a tiny house for them, and it has evolved into something far greater than just the single home I intended to build."

Smokie passed away in November 2016. She will forever be remembered as the gracious woman who motivated Elvis Summers to create homes for the homeless.

Homelessness is a serious issue

This narrative should serve as a wake-up call to everyone. Millions are in need of our assistance. Millions require our support to endure. Among them, some are ill, most are despondent, and all are famished. It's time to take a stand for change and offer someone the opportunity for a better life.

Source:

abcnews.go.com