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A nurse’s personal reflection on a day in ‘Skid Row’ and Midtown Los Angeles (LA) highlighted issues related to homelessness and both public and not-for-profit sector solutions used in the United States (US). The experience not only raised awareness of the magnitude of the problem in that country, but also inspired consideration of the common issues and the potential for translating US strategies to reduce homelessness to the Australian context. A reflective cycle was used as the framework for this paper to highlight the component parts of the process for the author and the reader. The unexpected intensity of the experience highlighted the need to prepare the health workforce for practice in unpredictable environments and to deliver flexible service beyond simply providing food and shelter. It also served to more deeply personalise the relationship with the PhD research undertaken by the lead author (KR), exploring palliative care for homeless persons. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]