Enrique's Path to Progress

Former HomeFirst participant, Enrique Hernandez, has worked hard to pave a new path for himself and his son. Enrique spent his 20s and 30s in and out of prison, missing out on important family milestones, but he has since changed his trajectory. 

 

After being released from a 6-year sentence, Enrique worked to find employment and receive full custody of his child, both of which he accomplished. For a moment, things were looking up, but a mere one and a half weeks after gaining custodial rights, he lost his job, and he and his son were left homeless.  

 

Enrique learned about HomeFirst through CalWORKS, and he received a spot at our Family Shelter in Sunnyvale. The shelter’s motto, “From Crisis to Self Sufficient,” struck a chord with and motivated Enrique. He took it upon himself to learn about the Santa Clara County housing system and available social services, was active in his pursuit of housing, and navigated the paperwork and bureaucracy with support from a HomeFirst Case Manager.  

 

Enrique and his son now live in an apartment that they secured with the help of a housing voucher. Having permanent housing has enabled other aspects of their lives to fall into place. Enrique has a 6-month employment contract with the nonprofit, Catholic Charities, and when this is complete, he will begin a janitorial position at a local hospital. As Enrique is a forward-thinking person, he is also taking LinkedIn Learning classes to develop new skills and strengthen his resume. Enrique’s son, now a high school junior, is thriving as well. He has the support of his school, a graduation plan in place, and a dedicated father who he can lean on. 

 

Enrique is proud of how far he and his son have come and knows that his late mother would be too. With an apartment, employment, a strong connection with his son, and an expunged criminal record, Enrique is breaking down stereotypes, overcoming barriers, and forging a new path forward.