Ivy Matthews works full time at Scholastic.
He works in multiple positions for the Jefferson City employer, Matthews said.
And he makes good money.
But he had eye surgery about a year ago and was unable to work for a period. While he was away from work, he lost his apartment.
After six months, when Matthews recovered from the surgery, he returned to work at Scholastic.
But the damage had been done. He was evicted, he said through an interpreter.
Matthews, who is deaf, said he's so grateful for the job he continues to attend every day and is approaching his five-year anniversary there.
He discussed his situation with the News Tribune through an American Sign Language interpreter.
"Not being able to work for six months, you can't pay your rent," he said.
He's lived at the Salvation Army Center of Hope since May. The center generally limits how long folks can stay in their shelter, according to Brian Vogeler, director of the center. The limit is generally about 90 days. But there is nowhere for Matthews to go.
He has the income to rent an affordable apartment. He'd even consider buying a small home, but there are none available, Matthews said.
"There is a misconception that people in the shelter are homeless and don't want to do anything," Vogeler said. "These are good, hardworking people. They are working and putting their money away."
Several people in the shelter awaiting apartments have saved up enough money for necessary deposits.
"There's just not much inventory," Vogeler said. "(Wednesday) I had three single moms looking for housing call. Ann Bax (president of the United Way) called me about one.
"They're working hard, and they just can't make ends meet."
Vogeler said comments made at Tuesday night's Jefferson City Council meeting disturbed his family -- specifically that people making $12-$14 per hour don't contribute to their communities. He said he and his wife needed an affordable apartment when they got out of college. He worked at a low-income job, but was focused on bettering himself.
Nonprofits like his struggle to pay that sort of wage, he said. He said his workforce is primarily made up of retirees.
"Maybe they don't make a lot, but they sure do contribute to the community," Vogeler said.
Matthews said he can afford a little more than some, and he wouldn't mind paying a little for a place where he can host his family on visits. But nothing is available.
"It's not hard -- living alone," Matthews said. "But, when you can't see (because of the surgery) ... that complicates it."
He's looking for a good home. He would like something simple. Maybe a single-floor place. The Salvation Army has helped with the search.
He found a tiny apartment Wednesday and visited it. It was just too small and uncomfortable.
"I like a big kitchen because I love to cook -- that's my whole life," Matthews said.
He said he is somewhat discouraged by the search, but continues to try.
"The Salvation Army is taking very good care of me," he said. "They support me. It's a good life."
See also:
Public questions Jefferson City Council at housing meeting
Jefferson City Council’s housing comments create backlash
Joshuea Gentges (left) uses American Sign Language to joke with Ivy Matthews. Matthews, who is living at the shelter, is deaf. Matthews discussed challenges finding apartments in Jefferson City.
Ivy Matthews uses American Sign Language to discuss challenges finding housing in Jefferson City.