“There’s a place for me out there, I know it and I really want it”

Jean Pierre, better known as JP, willingly shared pieces of his story with us, with parts of it being very difficult, but his experiences also offered a glimpse into the realities faced by people experiencing homelessness. Everyone's story is different.

JP is currently enrolled in Trinity Center's case management program. He has lived in Austin for 40 years and has experienced homelessness on and off—with his current state being his third and unfortunately longest time, going on one and a half years.

He has suffered two major accidents in his lifetime, resulting in severe head trauma, a tracheotomy, an amputated arm, and rot in his leg. These accidents have significantly impacted his health and ability to work. He still worked at times in labor jobs and restaurants, but over time, it became increasingly difficult. "Losing my arm was part of life. It ain't nothing to me. It's just a well, and I'm alive—that's what matters," he said. It is clear that he refuses to let his circumstances define who he is or where he is today.

JP has also battled addiction for years, but now he is determined to change and get clean. "I want to get into treatment. Once I do, I know a place for me is coming—I just know it, and I really want it," JP said when asked about his goals.

With his case manager, Robert, he has been actively working to find an affordable rehab facility that meets his needs. Beyond that, their weekly Wednesday meetings are intentional times for JP and Robert to plan, seek additional resources, gather necessary supplies to stay healthy, or to simply talk. JP looks forward to these meetings, expressing that Robert has his back—something many of our neighbors have expressed to us seems rare to find among different providers.

JP is lively, eager, and truthful, with a great sense of humor. Like him, we are looking forward to seeing what the future holds. Though the path ahead won’t be easy, it is one worth navigating toward a place he can once again call home.

Just like with JP, our Case Management program provides in-depth support to neighbors who are striving to get off the streets. What sets us apart is our team's deep knowledge of city resources, genuine hospitality, and compassionate commitment—qualities that don’t go unnoticed.

Each time neighbors walk out our doors, they walk away with more than just services—they leave with a sense of hope, clarity, and direction among the chaos they may face outside.

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