Advocates from across the Sioux Falls area came together one afternoon for a conversation about homelessness. Here is what we heard.

Fear

"You have no idea how terrifying it is not to have a door to lock. I will never forget that fear as long as I live."

Sadness

"When the wind chill is 40 below, handing someone a sleeping bag is like handing them a license to die."

Desperation

"People who are becoming homeless, or are experiencing their first week of homelessness, don't have a clue how they'll make it until morning."

Pride

"I didn't have a place for this man at the shelter, so I offered my own home. He slipped out the back door before I came back to pick him up, to maintain his own honor and dignity."

Generosity

"Our homeless community shares resources. The feeling is you helped me last week, so I'll help you this week."

Surprise

"People would be amazed to know how many women are out there - women running from domestic violence situations and broken homes."

Guilt

"They are so used to being shunned. They aren't used to goodness. Don't feel guilty the problem exists, accept it. Understand and appreciate the circumstances people are faced with."