Chris' Story

Oak Park-native Chris Bakke spent his first days on the streets of Chicago in 2005 after his job was outsourced to Mexico. Outside of a few odd jobs, Chris has struggled to find full-time employment. He spends his days collecting money to pay for a nightly hotel room and his daily meals. I met Chris outside the Sears in downtown Chicago, where I first met Joseph Phillips.

Listen to Chris' story.

NOTE: Chris refers to a Link card, which is an Illinois electronic food stamp program. Read more about the Link program here.

Robert's Story

Robert has been living on Chicago's streets for the better part of the past decade. He says a personal choice led him into homelessness and calls that choice the biggest mistake of his life. At age 48, his search for full-time employment continues.

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Willy's Story

Willy is not originally from Chicago. He was born in St. Louis and lived in the Gateway city for 54 years, until his wife passed away in 2005. Needing a change and a fresh start, Willy came to Chicago, where he has lived ever since. He says he has a place to stay, although he doesn't specify where.

Willy has no job; he's been on disability for the past 20 years. Even so, he's out on the street nearly every day with a cup in hand, collecting money to feed himself, buy clothes and occasionally help other homeless people around him.

I met Willy on a bitterly cold November afternoon, sitting on Wabash Ave. along Jewelers' Row, cradling a steaming thermos of coffee between his legs.

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Ronnie's Story

Ronnie "Scooter" Grant lives in an alcove between two high-rise buildings on Madison St. in Chicago. The 26-year-old Arkansas native grew up on the West side of Chicago and has lived in the city most of his life. Grant doesn't have a job and isn't searching for employment. In fact, he's never had a job. Grant offered to me his views on life and society and a glimpse at the inner peace of man on the street.

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James' Story

James, age 59, is a Vietnam veteran who served from 1968-1971 in the United States Marine Corps. The Peoria, Ill. native has lived in Chicago since 1981. He has an apartment to live in through public housing services, yet he is out on the street most days asking for money to "survive." He's been out on the street asking for help for the past three years. I talked with James on Veterans Day 2008 on the Washington St. drawbridge over the Chicago River.

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Dwayne's Story

Following a failed relationship and a stint in prison, Dwayne, age 39, is trying to change his life. He's enrolled in a culinary arts program at Kennedy-King College in Chicago. Dwayne only needs to pay 10% of the $400 monthly tuition, yet he struggles to raise the needed funds to complete his education.

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Michael's Story

Meet the "Cookie Man," 35-year-old Michael. His apartment in the Robert Taylor Homes was redeveloped into condominiums, forcing out most residents and costing Michael his baking business. Unable to hold a steady job, he has been living in an alley for most of the last three years.

Listen to Michael's story.