Antonio

Behind his crooked smile and blue eyes is a shadow of pain, hopelessness and sorrow. Antonio was on top of the world as long as he had strength, friendship and direction from his father. Then, in the blink of an eye, everything that defined him and gave his life meaning came to an end.

A massive heart attack claimed the life of Antonio's father, and his stability. At the young age of 21, Antonio was left afraid and alone. In an effort to protect himself and his mother from homelessness, Antonio sold unused household appliances and other items to earn money. Quickly, there was nothing left of value to sell, so like many lost youth, he turned to the streets to make money before running into trouble with the law.

Life for Antonio, once filled with optimism and memorable times with his parents in their Southwest Detroit home, rapidly spiraled downward. A paper trail of missed payments coupled with mountains of bills proved too hard for Antonio to climb, and he and his mother were unable to keep their home and left with no place to go. Turning from one family member to the next for shelter, they eventually wore out their welcome. Left homeless, Antonio was driven to find comfort in park benches and abandoned homes for weeks at a time. His meals were provided by local churches and the few dollars he received in passing from good Samaritans.

However unbearable Antonio's situation had become, he remembered his father's strength and used it as motivation to keep the faith. Exhausted from living on the streets, Antonio found a place of refuge and peace in the Crisis Center at Covenant House Michigan, while his mom found temporary shelter with extended family.

"My faith was lifted, it took a blow when my father died." Covenant House is dedicated to providing hope, respect and unconditional love, always. "It's good people here, just in a bad situation, but we're like one big family here," said Antonio of his fellow residents. No other homeless shelter caters to the needs of youth like CHM. "I've been to other shelters, this is the best, the food is magnificent and the staff really cares about us and tries to do what's best for us."

Antonio is currently seeking employment in construction with the ultimate goal of purchasing a home for both himself and his mother. Covenant House has restored faith and confidence in Antonio's life.

It's because of the support of the community - people like you - that our kids have the courage to get off the streets. Everyday we help a kid get off the streets – because of your help. Thank you for believing in Antonio. Thank you for restoring our kids' faith. Thank you for continuing to care.

Donate now to help Antonio and other kids in our Crisis Center.