Hi,
I like you and your tenacity.
Why don't you ask it differently so all those annoying comments trying to "help" you would stop.
What I'm thinking is this:
"hey guys,
Does anyone have a fun side project I could hack on? Would you also be so generous as to have a couch for me at your place and host me for couple of weeks or whatever time?"
I can't imagine why such a proposal would have any illegal implications as long as you're presence in this country is legal. You can also qualify the "side project" as non-commercial and "hobby"
Does that make any sense whatsoever in your situation?
Anyway, best of luck. I really hope things get better.
Take care.