Four days into living in their van, Sara’s purse, which contained most of their money, was stolen. When the policeman they reported the theft to asked for their address, Sara explained that the family was “between addresses” (109). The policeman named two local homeless shelters, but they separated men from women and children and did not allow pets, both of which were unacceptable to Tom.

Jackson told the policeman that his science teacher had rats that he was teaching to play basketball. After receiving a card with the numbers for social services, a food pantry, and a free clinic, the family began walking back to the minivan. The policeman called Jackson back to ask about the rats’ jump shots, then handed him $20. He gave it to Jackson because he knew Tom would not accept it. After Jackson handed it to his father, Jackson thought his dad was going to throw it out the window and yell at Jackson. Instead, he tapped the steering wheel then said, “Looks like dinner’s on me” (112).