A hօmeless man sleeping in an airport gets his own place to live
WLS-TV in Chicago reports One Chicago homeless man has found a new place to live after weeks of walking the streets and sleeping at O’Hare Airport.
Norbert Pikula’s story was first shared by ABC7 a few weeks ago, and thanks to community support, the 77-year-old was able to move on Wednesday.
«It took a long time, but my day came,» he explained.
Just a few weeks ago, he was sleeping at O’Hare, unsure of when or if he’d be able to find stable housing.
«Nothing happens right away, so you have to wait,» Pikula explained.
Pikula is now in his new home, thanks to the help of the community and the advocacy of his advocate Sarah Boone.
«I’m simply astounded by how generous people are. They don’t just give money; they also write notes. One woman arranged for him to stay in a hotel for a few days «said Boone, volunteer coordinator for the Chicago Help Initiative.
Pikula’s GoFundMe had about $4,000 and a few dozen contributors before ABC7’s initial story. It grew to nearly $20,000 after it aired, with over 400 people pitching in to help.
When asked what it means to no longer have to live in those conditions, Pikula replied that it gives him peace of mind.
Pikula now has his own bed in Humboldt Park, and he says that even though he doesn’t know the hundreds of people who donated to help him get there, he feels close to them all.
