The woman has been trying to help the stranger get back on her feet (stock) (Image: Bloomberg via Getty Images)
A woman was left utterly astounded after she found out that a had been secretly living under her 113-year-old for several months.
The startling discovery came about when she was tidying up the exterior of her home and noticed the small hatch to the crawlspace underneath was ajar. A peek into the crawlspace with a flashlight revealed a purple and pink blanket and some bags.
The homeowner, known by her username u/springchikun, shared online: “I don’t think it’s been slept in super recently. It would be a serious risk for them and it’s been very warm. I do think they access it to access their belongings at least weekly. The opening had no cobwebs inside as well.
“Having said that, to the left […] there were more items and a backpack. Maybe the things belong to different people who had the same idea?”
She further noted the clear signs of use: “The bag of stuff definitely has a head-shaped depression in it, so whether storage or just an occasional sleep spot, I’m sure someone is using the space.”
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When questioned about her delayed awareness of the uninvited guest, the woman from Woodburn, Oregon, explained: “In my defence, I didn’t know because I struggle to hear, the house is large, and I don’t spend time in that part of the house.
“I’m gone a lot. I have a day job and I restore old cemeteries as a hobby – and I’ll be gone up to 12 hours a day sometimes. When I get home I’m usually exhausted and sleep hard.”
In an update, the woman revealed that she left a note and some cash in the crawlspace for the stranger, hoping it would prompt them to make contact. Thankfully, this strategy worked and she was able to meet the person living beneath her house.
She continued: “Her name is Gaby, and she’s in her late 40s. She said she only sleeps there occasionally, maybe once or twice a month. She said she never uses flame under there, and she mostly just keeps her things there. She apologised for not asking.” The woman discovered that Gabby, who has mental health issues, cannot afford to live with someone and instead sleeps rough.
She said: “She receives disability through social security but it’s not enough to even be a roommate. She has a history of theft because she often has had to steal to eat. She says this makes it impossible to get hired anywhere. She’s been houseless for almost three years in the area. Her family knows where she is but they don’t know how to help her. She has a phone they pay for.”
Aiming to lend a hand, the woman shared: “We talked about resources and shelters, I contacted a friend who provides those things for a living. I gave her my phone number, put her in my car and drove her to my friend who is going to help her get food, shelter and a mental health evaluation. Fingers crossed it’s the beginning of something great for her.”