Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes
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Alex Cabrero ReportingStand outside at this time of year and it doesn't take long to feel how cold it is. For most of us it's easy to find someplace warm. But Alex Cabrero shares the story of one woman who can't go inside because there is no inside to go to.
There's a good chance Anne Pritchard knows every single country music star and song.
Anne Pritchard: “My favorite song is ‘American Soldier.’”
Maybe it's because country music is known for songs that have happy endings to sad stories. Anne is still waiting for hers.
Anne Pritchard, Homeless: “It’s not like I thought it would be when I was younger.”
You see, Anne is homeless and spends every day dreaming of how it was supposed to be.
Anne Pritchard: “It’s tough, really really tough to be out on the streets.”
She says she's tried to get help, but, well... you know. It's tough.
Anne Pritchard: “Just trying to panhandle money for the day to make enough food.”
She is married, but her husband was too embarrassed to be interviewed. Pride is something no one can take away.
Anne and her husband live underneath a bridge on 39th south. And when they're not sleeping and have nowhere else to go, they go to Harmony Park in South Salt Lake City. Unless you're a kid, or like tennis or baseball, there isn't a whole lot to do there, especially in the winter time.
Anne Pritchard: “We’ve got blankets, but it’s not enough.”
Anne says she's tried homeless shelters, but claims there is too much violence in them for her to stay. With cameras, a 24-hour staff, and a bag check-in, Rescue Mission director Stephen Trost says his shelter is safe.
Stephen Trost, Salt Lake City Rescue Mission: “We either breathalyzer them or do a visual test to see if they’re high or anything.”
Anne says she used to use drugs, but is now clean and is just waiting to see how her song ends.
Anne Pritchard: “You don’t know what’s going to happen from one day to the next.”
Anne says she has a lawyer who is trying to help her get some benefits, but it might take a while.
