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In a bizarre discovery, contractors working on the rooftop of a Family Fare Supermarket in Midland, Michigan, found a 34-year-old woman living inside the store’s sign. The incident, which has been making headlines, raises questions about homelessness, resourcefulness and the need for affordable housing.
According to reports, the woman had been residing within the sign structure for approximately a year. The rooftop sign, perched atop the grocery store, provided an unexpected living space. The sign, measuring about 5 feet (1.5 meters) wide and 8 feet (2.4 meters) high, had a door and was accessible from the roof.
Inside this unconventional home, the woman had set up a mini desk, complete with a computer, printer and a Keurig coffee maker. Her clothing and personal belongings were also present. An extension cord connected the sign to one of the rooftop units, allowing her to access electricity.
Police reportedly nicknamed her the “Rooftop Ninja.” Her stealthy existence went unnoticed until the contractors stumbled upon the extension cord.
Officer Brennon Warren of the Midland police department expressed amazement, stating, “It’s a story that makes you scratch your head, just somebody living up in a sign.” The woman, whose identity remains undisclosed, claimed to have a job elsewhere but chose to live in this unconventional space.
The woman’s resourcefulness is evident. Despite her homelessness, she managed to create a functional living area within the sign. However, her situation highlights the pressing issue of affordable housing. Saralyn Temple, director of Midland’s Open Door, emphasized the need for better solutions saying, “From someone who works with the homeless, part of me acknowledges she was really resourceful. Obviously, we don’t want people resorting to illegal activity to find housing. There are much better options.”
The supermarket’s parent company, SpartanNash, responded with compassion. Adrienne Chance, a spokesperson, acknowledged the housing crisis and declined further comment. The police provided the woman with information about local services and she left voluntarily. No charges were filed against her.
