Pros and Cons of the Overflow Shelter

Joseph Castillo said he’s the most Capricorn man you’ve ever met. He says he’s logical, practical and grounded, referring to the tenth astrological sign in the zodiac. He recently turned 29 and moved to Reno from the San Francisco area about a year and a half ago.

“I originally came up this way because my fiance wanted to and at the time it kind of sounded like a good decision. Prices in California were inflating. It's like $3,000 a month for a studio apartment in San Francisco. So [we] came out here and found out that it'll be a lot cheaper, kind of chose to stick around,” Castillo said.

Castillo is currently staying at the overflow shelter. He said the pros are heating, bottled water and helpful staff. He also said the staff are willing to work with individuals who have jobs. But those who are unemployed are outside for a majority of the day.

“If you don't have work, you know, if you're not the type of person to look for work, you can be trapped outside from about like 6:00 am until 9:00 pm. Given all the elements and everything else, some people are prone to getting sick,” Castillo said.

A Google view of the overflow shelter on Washington st. which opens its doors late, and forces people out early. Castillo explained that if you sleep here but you don’t have a job on a given day, you have to figure out what to do on the streets befo… — A Google view of the overflow shelter on Washington st. which opens its doors late, and forces people out early. Castillo explained that if you sleep here but you don’t have a job on a given day, you have to figure out what to do on the streets before sunrise.

Multiple Jobs But Not Enough to Afford a Place to Stay

Castillo says he currently works as an EVS porter for Club Cal Neva, performing heavy cleaning duties. He said he also does side work through temp agencies. He said he spends a lot of time reflecting.

“Well for starters, find a well enough paying job that I actually like, that I'm comfortable with, keep that going for awhile,” he said of his goals. “Slowly start building, whether it's a house or an apartment or something else, instead of staying in the same predicament,” Castillo said.

Castillo said he’s prepping to work at Tesla as a production worker. He said he’s also working on getting his Mine Safety and Health Administration certification in order to get into mining.

“I'm not too nostalgic, but I'm a bit of a worrywart and it's because I like to have a game plan,” Castillo said.

Reporting by Lucia Starbuck for Our Town Reno