In an unexpected discovery, a woman in Midland, Michigan was found living above a grocery store in a specially modified sign.

A 34-year-old woman had turned the store sign into a makeshift apartment, complete with a desk and electronics, before being discovered by contractors, as Fox News reports.

Initial Discovery by Contractors

On April 23, the peculiar setup was uncovered when contractors saw an extension cord that ran to the roof of the Family Fare grocery market, where the sign is located. Intrigued by the power source, they investigated further.

They found the sign, which measures 5 feet wide and 8 feet high, modified into a living space.

The interior was accessible through a door on the roof, though it was unclear how the woman accessed her elevated home as no ladder was visible.

Details of the Makeshift Home

Inside, the space was surprisingly well-equipped. According to Midland Police Officer Brennon Warren, the setup included "a mini desk, her clothing, a Keurig coffee maker, a printer, and a computer -- things you'd have in your home."

Warren expressed his bewilderment at the living situation, noting the addition of some flooring and the absence of any explanation on how she managed to climb up to the sign regularly without being noticed.

Resident's Background and Police Interaction

The woman, who was homeless, had been living in the sign for a year.

She disclosed to the police that she was employed elsewhere during her time in the sign, indicating an attempt to maintain some normalcy despite her unconventional housing.

No charges were pressed against her. After being discovered, she cooperated with local authorities, apologized for any inconvenience, and vacated the sign.

Officer Warren provided her with information about local housing and support services, although her subsequent whereabouts remain unknown.

Community Response and Corporate Statement

The incident took place in Midland, located about 130 miles north of Detroit. The local community was alerted to the situation, highlighting the ongoing issues of housing security in the area.

SpartanNash, the parent company of Family Fare, commented on the incident, emphasizing that "ensuring there is ample safe, affordable housing continues to be a widespread issue nationwide that our community needs to partner in solving."

Reflection on Housing Insecurity

This case points to larger systemic issues of housing affordability and security. The creative, yet desperate, solution of living in a store sign underscores the challenges faced by the homeless population.

The local authorities and community are called to consider more robust solutions and supports to prevent similar situations in the future.

In conclusion, the discovery of a Michigan woman living in a grocery store sign for a year illuminates the extreme measures some are forced to take amidst housing crises.

The community’s reaction, coupled with corporate acknowledgement, underscores the need for collaborative efforts to address and solve housing insecurity.