Beto didn’t anticipate becoming homeless. Afterall, he worked—just not steadily. And staying at local campgrounds in their older RV—their only possession—was only temporary. But as the weeks turned into months, Beto had to accept that housing wasn’t just going to materialize. After years of low pay, it was either the RV or the street.
Beto wanted better, especially for his son, but shame and his mistrust of social systems made asking for help unthinkable. He hated feeling like some “down and out charity case.”
At 17, Levi had dropped out of high school to find full-time employment. He had wanted to help his dad out. But now at 18, he’d hit a dead end. Without his HS diploma or GED, he’d be stuck with part-time, low paying jobs. His dad—only skilled in physical labor—struggled to keep up with even part-time work. Their ongoing instability, lack of medical care, and high levels of stress were wearing on Beto’s health. Every day, the rising pressure to find housing and financial security weighed heavily on Levi’s young shoulders. He begged his dad to get help.
With no other options, Beto finally agreed to call the Department of Social Services to see what housing support was available. Beto and Levi were referred to FCNI’s Housing Support Program (HSP). When they finally met with their team, Levi was excited to cooperate, but Beto was fearful and defensive. After a couple of failed meetings, Levi told their worker that if his dad wouldn’t try, he would go forward without him. Hearing his son’s desperation, Beto agreed to try harder. Their team assured them both that with hard work, commitment, and FCNI’s help, change was possible.
Beto was paired with Alex, a Support Specialist who had also received services through FCNI. After learning about Alex’s personal experiences with homelessness, Beto felt less alone. He admitted that his fear of rejection kept him from trying for jobs and housing opportunities. Alex assured Beto that he’d walk alongside him—he didn’t have to do this alone.
To Levi’s happy surprise, progress followed. They secured temporary housing, then a voucher for a long-term rental. Levi earned his GED and is now pursuing a vocational program while Beto tries to manage his health and learn new job skills that will be easier on him physically.
With stability and support, father and son are building a future, together, that was once unfathomable.
