“Yesterday is a day I will always remember while representing our agency. I had just left District 16 and was headed south on Jog Road to District 6. As I approached Lake Worth Road, I realized I needed to respond to some text messages of citizens we have assisted. I intended to pull over in the parking lot of Target but I wasn’t able to get over because of the flow of the traffic. As I continued to travel east on Lake Worth Rd, I pulled into the parking lot of the Office Depot. At that time, I started responding and following up with families we were assisting. I then noticed a van parked about 25 yards from where I was. As I continued responding to messages, I noticed the door opened. I saw a small child come out while the door remained open. I then noticed another child get out of the van. They both sat on the ground beside the van. Then, I noticed another child getting out of the van followed by two more children. I observed five children sitting on the ground. At that time, I pulled my vehicle over by the van. I noticed two ladies sitting inside of the van. One was the mother and the other one was the grandmother. I said good morning and asked if everything is ok. The grandmother said, “yes, we are ok. I’m just waiting on my husband who is inside donating plasma for money.” At that time, I explained to Ms. Tammy the grandmother what my job duties were within our agency and allow me to help them with the kids. Ms. Tammy was very apprehensive about me helping them. I continued to be purposeful observing that this is a serious case of homelessness. I then asked if the kids had eaten breakfast. Ms. Tammy said that is what they are doing now. They were sitting on the ground eating a granola bar. At that time, I asked Ms. Tammy if I could buy them breakfast from McDonald’s. Tears started down her face and she admitted that they were homeless living out of their van. I left and went to McDonald’s and purchased food for the entire family of 8. The kids were so happy and really enjoyed their food. I then made contact with Deputy Mackey so we can get this family off the streets. While that process was taking place, I went to the grocery store to buy some food for the family. The family was placed in a hotel until we can help them find permanent housing.”