Three States. One City She Calls Home.

Regina’s story began in East Texas—Anderson County, to be exact. But life had more roads for her to travel.

She lived in three different cities across Virginia, each one offering its own challenges and lessons. But it was Austin that eventually became home.

She moved here at 20. And she’s stayed ever since.

Now, Regina’s roots run deep in this city. Not in the traditional sense—not always with walls and ceilings—but in the people she’s met, the strength she’s held onto, and the decades of experience she carries with grace.

When we sat down with her, she didn’t dwell on what she didn’t have. She reflected on what she’s seen. Where she’s been. What it means to call a place home even when life doesn’t make it easy.

Regina reminds us that stories of homelessness aren’t always recent. They’re not always sudden. Sometimes, they’re slow chapters that unfold over time, shaped by systems, setbacks, and silent perseverance.

And in that perseverance, there’s dignity.

At projectUmbrella, we’re committed to hearing and honoring every story—because no one’s journey should be invisible.