Born and raised in Colorado, Mr. Russell learned the value of hard work early on. To stay afloat, he juggled four part-time jobs before eventually moving to Houston, Texas, with his then-wife. But after experiencing domestic abuse in his marriage, he made the difficult decision to leave and start over.
“I didn’t want to go back home,” he shared. “I just wanted a fresh start.”
That fresh start brought Mr. Russell to Austin, where an old friend lived. A proud Marine Corps veteran, he arrived determined but uncertain, sleeping in his vehicle while searching for stability. He recalls how difficult those days were, especially under the Texas heat.
“The hardest part about being homeless was the heat,” he said. “It was unbearable some days. I had a gym membership, so I’d go there to stay cool, work on myself, and shower. It helped me stay grounded.”
While researching veteran housing assistance in Austin, Mr. Russell discovered Rapid Rehousing. His first point of contact was Sunrise, who then referred him to Front Steps. That’s when everything began to change.
“Front Steps is my guardian angel,” he said with a smile.
Through Front Steps’ homeless services in Austin, Mr. Russell connected with his case managers, Trina and Jaime. Trina helped him secure housing, and he still remembers the moment she told him the good news.
“The moment Trina told me I got accepted into an apartment, it was amazing. Once I was pointed in the right direction, it has been the best process.”
Jaime, his other case manager, also made a lasting impact. “Meeting Jaime in person gave me a lot of hope,” Mr. Russell recalled.
Today, Mr. Russell is happily settled into his new home, where he’s able to focus on the things he loves. He enjoys broadcasting local football games, deepening his faith, and building a future filled with possibility. “I’m proud that I got confirmed at my church,” he said. “My belief in God and seeing what I’m capable of really kept me going.”
Looking ahead, Mr. Russell has big dreams. He hopes to become a high school science teacher and grow his online presence as a sports broadcaster on YouTube and X. His ultimate goal? “To one day work for ESPN!”
When asked what message he would share with others going through similar struggles, he offered simple but powerful advice:
“Ask for help. Just ask anyone. You never know where that first step will lead.”
And to the Austin community, Mr. Russell shared a heartfelt reminder:
“Everyone has a different story. You never really know what people are going through. Even if you don’t know how to approach someone, you can help by supporting organizations like Front Steps that are already at the front lines. Seek more information on how to help.”
Mr. Russell’s story is one of courage, faith, and the life-changing impact of homelessness prevention in Austin. Thanks to programs like Rapid Rehousing and the support of non-profits in Austin.
“I just want to thank Front Steps and Sunrise,” he said. “They were my guardian angels.”
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