Welcome Home: Humberto

This week’s permanent housing success story features Humberto, a former member of the U.S. Navy

Humberto turned down help from LAHSA Homeless Engagement Team members James and Louie, initially, because the thought of receiving help made him nervous. The team saw Humberto’s hesitation and brought a fellow former member of the Navy, which put Humberto at ease and led to him being connected to the Salvation Army.

James and Louie helped Humberto receive services from the Salvation Army, and helped fix a discrepancy with his food stamps. Humberto was inspired by their efforts to quit drinking.

“It’s time to make a change, and it starts here because this is my home, and I want to take care of my home,” Humberto said. “Now I’m sober for the rest of my life.”

Humberto’s advice to anyone still living on the street is to connect with LAHSA as soon as possible.

“They will help you,” he said. “They are the guardian angels of the streets and the community, and if anybody can help you, it’s going to be them.”