Garrick

When Garrick first connected with Housing Forward, he was sleeping outside a Home Depot in Elmwood Park. Like many people who experience homelessness, his path there was shaped by a series of losses.

Garrick had previously worked in the sanitation department for the City of Chicago and was proud of the stability that job provided. After his parents passed away, his circumstances changed dramatically. For a time, he managed by sleeping in his car while working for DoorDash. But when his car broke down, he lost both his income and his safe place to sleep.

That’s when Garrick met a Housing Forward staff member who connected him with our Emergency Overnight Shelter. From there, Garrick took the next step into the Interim Housing Program at 211 N. Oak Park Ave. where he found more than just a roof over his head. He found community.

He speaks fondly of the extra effort staff and fellow residents put into special events. something that meant more to him than he ever expected. Pizza nights, holiday dinners, and gathering together to watch the Super Bowl became moments of joy. In the summer months, Garrick loves walking to Scoville Park and soaking in the Sunday music.

Now, Garrick is preparing for his next chapter, moving into a Supportive Living program. He’s excited about having a place of his own and starting fresh. At the same time, he knows he’ll miss the friends he made during his time in Oak Park.