Jorge and Colleen were living with their two small children in a run-down apartment in a dangerous neighborhood. Fearing for the safety of their children, ages 1 and 2, they fled from their apartment. With no affordable housing options on the horizon, Jorge and his family began living out of their car. Although choosing homelessness was not an easy decision, Jorge and Colleen felt safer in their car than they did in a neighborhood racked with gun violence.
Jorge had been HIV-positive for 30 years, putting him in the class of longest-term survivors. He battled and overcame many life-threatening AIDS-related illnesses. But while living in his car and searching for a safe, affordable apartment, Jorge got very sick and reached out to House of Ruth in a desperate state.
House of Ruth stepped in and helped Jorge and Colleen get an affordable apartment in a safer neighborhood. They paid the security deposit and first month’s rent. Jorge and Colleen recently celebrated Thanksgiving in their new apartment where they felt grateful that their children have a safe place to play and grow. Jorge has become a passionate advocate for others battling HIV/AIDS.
