From Building Homes to Surviving Without One

Peter came to the United States from Thailand in 1974. He was just five years old when he arrived—curious, wide-eyed, and full of possibility. Over the years, he built a life the way many immigrants do: with hard work and perseverance. He spent most of his adult life working in construction and plumbing, using his hands to help build and fix the homes of others.

Now, Peter doesn’t have one of his own.

He’s been unhoused for some time, navigating the streets with quiet resilience. When we met him, he told us the hardest part isn’t necessarily the cold or hunger—it’s the traffic.

“People don’t realize how hard it is just to cross the road when you’re carrying everything you own,” he said. “It’s dangerous, and people aren’t really looking out for you.”

Despite everything, Peter’s spirit is gentle. He loves animals—his face lights up every time a dog passes by. He showed us the little setup he’s made for himself with quiet pride, calling it “his house.” It might not have four walls, but it’s his space. A place he can return to at the end of the day.

There’s a softness to Peter that life hasn’t shaken. And that softness is a reminder: behind every circumstance is a full, complex person with a story worth hearing.

Peter’s is one of many. And we’re honored to share it.