Gary's Story

My name is Gary; my experience at Praxis has been one of productivity and growth. I came to Praxis Housing Init on April 2, 2009 after being released from incarceration. I had been diagnosed with HIV during my incarceration.

In the beginning the transition for me was very difficult. I was fighting a battle within myself, feeling of resentment, depression, low self esteem, betrayal and blaming others for my current situation.

I had decided that I would just do me, and not be concerned with other people’s issues. After all, I believed that it was helping others that led me to my present situation. This disturbed belief made me develop serious issues regarding lack of trust, in addition to being HIV + and homeless . . . More

Howard's Story

My experience at Praxis/Riverside Place was an enjoyable ride. When I first arrived at Riverside in August 2011, I didn’t have the fundamental tools to begin the process to transition from being homeless to having a place that I can call home. Since the age of 16 I had experienced numerous occasions where I found myself being homeless.

My first positive move at Praxis was my first day when I was greeted by the front desk staff Ms. Curry and the Site Director Ms. Echevarria who offered me a meal and made me feel welcome.

The Social Service team understood my needs and helped me grow as an individual and assist me to obtain the needed entitlements, medical assistance and understand the different housing options that were available to me . . . More

Tiara's Story

We all go through difficult experiences, but it’s what you do with that experience that can make an impact on you or someone else’s life. Do you sit and marinate in the problem?, Or do you face it head on?

When I came to Praxis Housing in May 2011, I did not quite know what to expect for the simple fact that I was alone in a city that I was not familiar with anymore. I felt outside my comfort zone, but I knew I had to think positive in the situation. With my determination, relentless and the help of Praxis staff, I was able to move into my own apartment within one month.

Staying in Praxis Housing wasn’t easy, let me assure you, but it made me aware of the epidemic that was effecting our community. We all had different back-stories and were from different walks of life; but we all had a commonality that brought us together and we learned from one another . . . More

Travis' Story

My time here at Praxis was brief but in that time I gained the confidence to move out on my own and be independent.

When I first came I had never before received public assistance. My Case Worker Ms. Martinez made sure that it stayed steady and consistent, also helping with any questions and assuage any fears that I had. She also kept me abreast of any services I was able to obtain such as clothing, food, and haircuts all for free.

The Vocational Counselor Ms. Bowie helped me to recreate my resume and made sure I had a proper email account . . . More