Toy Chest - Toys - Hope chest

How do I survive being homeless?

Personal: I'm 19, I've just recently started living on the streets, I don't have a car, no family, no friends, I worry & cry every day.... I'm smart and can handle almost any job, but I have little proof other than a GED. I used apply at every building I walk by with little luck, and it's now going to be 100% harder now that I dont live anywhere or have a cell phone.

Belongings: I have 3 bags. 1 large bag full of clothes, 1 small bag full of personal documents & books to keep me sane, 1 large bag containing towels, blankets, cologne, deodorant, soap, and other bathroom needs, including a gun for protection.

Health issues: I have eczema on my face, it only appears when I dont shower for more than 2 days. I have ringworm on my chest, it's only noticeable if I dont shower for more than 2 days.

Questions: I'm afraid for my personal hygiene more than anything else, even food. I have talked to many homeless people and others about showering and keeping clean and they say it's one of the luxuries they had to let go. If this is the case, for me, then I could have severe health issues in just 2 weeks. My ringworm could spread over my entire chest, my eczema could consume my face in a month, and I would be terribly scarred.... would a clinic offer some help? where could I shower where needed? How do I keep clean?
Most public libraries have computers. I'm actually walking from Portland in Oregon to somewhere in the central valley california. so I will be passing many cities. I'm not too educated on homeless shelters, but from what I was told they do a seach of your property and I will not give up my weapon until im sure my stuff will not get stolen.

Answer
Safety is the most important issue. This is why you need to go to a homeless shelter. Homeless people are targets for crime and weirdos. So, go to a homeless shelter and that will give you a temporary address so you can get a job. If you stay long enough to get a job, you can start saving a little money before you move on to another city. Most cities have a clinic that can help you with medical issues. The homeless shelter will have a list of these. You should look into volunteer work as that is often a way to get into a system and if they like you and things work out well, then an opening come up and you will be considered for a job you qualify for. Churches can also help you out. Good luck to you. There is safety in numbers. Don't isolate yourself and be cautious. Reach out to others, there are good people in the world who will help.