One off the streets, but don't rest on your laurels, folks

Downtown there was always a little skinny woman with white hair. If she had anything on her feet, it was one or two socks about to fall off. Sometimes she'd be seen walking in circles, elaborating to those only she could see. Other times she'd be going off on people who'd interfered with her.

I had the chance sometimes of holding out a cigarette, telling her to sit down, and talk to her. There were times I only got the attention afforded the time of the smoke, but other times I was able to get her to elaborate; in her own way; of what she was thinking at the time.

Those in Jacksonville reading this may know who I'm talking about. If you do, I'm happy to say that she's off the streets. I'm not sure how, but the many people who spent time outreaching her were able to get her on appropriate medication as well as into a home.

This woman was considered one of Jacksonville's top 100 most chronic homeless cases. I haven't had the chance to see her since, and honestly don't know if she'd remember me now as well.

What I do know is she's safe. She won't be raped when trying to rest outside. She won't be killed for a pack of cigarettes in the middle of the night.

She's off the streets.