Hi, I’m Derrick Soo, the Homeless Guy/Advocate on YouTube and Worldwide Media, talking about Homeless Solutions.

Back in 2022, I was burned out of my street shelter by an arsonist trying to murder me. I was taken in by a local business until I found more permanent housing for me and my 150 lb Bulldog. Shelters and hotels balk at allowing such a LARGE dog in. She’s old and very friendly to most people. I can't surrender her since it's highly unlikely anyone will adopt a dog this size and age.

The business partners that I teamed up with used me and my “talents” with local politics. We teamed up on an aquaculture project in 2023. They allowed me to do live/work space, which gave me housing off the streets. In turn, I did 90% of all the work to set up, inspect, and get licensed for operation. The biggest problem was insurance for the business. After nearly two years of attempting to attain business insurance, we couldn’t.

Business partners screwed me over several times by NOT paying bills on time, causing disruptions to the livestock, which died since pumps and heating ceased.

The property landlord is evicting us on January 28, 2025. I lose EVERYTHING once again in terms of housing. I cannot find and secure any housing solution with only a week of notice.

I will have to transition back to living on Oakland’s streets until I can find something. I need assistance with setting up a temporary shelter with electricity for my medical issues that are serious from being kicked in my head during the October 24th takeover business robbery. I have daily medical and psychological appointments M-F.

It’s securing my personal belongings and my Bulldog so I can make my appointments.

I’ve spent the last 12 years advocating for the homeless and working diligently introducing long-term housing solutions for our unhoused individuals and families. It’s rare that I ask for any assistance, but this is a REAL emergency to my well-being and safety. Calling 211 won’t help since the failed system is overwhelmed.

ANY financial assistance that you can give me is GREATLY & deeply appreciated.

Thank you and God Bless,

Derrick Soo

East Oakland Advocate