Patrick

Featured Video Play Icon

After a person does their time, they are released out into the streets with little to no support. As a convicted criminal, it’s nearly impossible to get a job. Many end up homeless. Like this or not, as a taxpayer, we all pay huge tax money per homeless person that’s out on the streets. Our criminal justice system is broken.

Patrick is 53 years old and lives homeless on the streets of Austin, Texas. After 30 years in the prison, Patrick was released to homelessness.

Patrick suffers from mental illness. He has several fingers amputated from his right hand and a dislocated shoulder. Even if there was someone who would hire an ex-felon, Patrick is disabled and cannot work.

He says he’s tried to get out of homelessness, but the cost of housing is too much. Patrick has a sister that tries to help, but she’s hurting too.

Patrick got emotional and asked to stop the interview. I can literally feel Patrick’s pain and frustration. Homelessness is hard. He’s paid the price for whatever crime he committed. There should be support for people like Patrick, but our criminal justice system is broken.

Your voice can help end homelessness. If we do not fix the affordable housing crisis, homelessness will continue to get worse. Click here to tweet, email, call, or Facebook your federal and state legislators to tell them ending homelessness and creating more affordable housing is a priority to you.


IP 19 Logo Icon crop

Invisible People

           

We imagine a world where everyone has a place to call home. Until then, we strive to be the most trusted source for homelessness news, education and advocacy.

Related Topics




Get the Invisible People newsletter


RECENT STORIES

homeless man Manchester, New Hampshire

Anthony

Where Will She Go? Homeless Woman's Heartbreaking Struggle.

Kellie

Homeless Veteran's ID Taken by Police Stripped of Access to Shelter

Ken

Homeless Man Across from the White House

Milton


RECENT ARTICLES

Why are you homeless

‘Why Are You Homeless?’ Is The Wrong Question

Legal Aid reform

Series Illustrates Need for Legal Aid Reforms to Prevent Homelessness

Food Insecurity growing - more people rely on food pantries

Food Insecurity Growing Across the U.S., USDA Finds

Criminalization and Death by Sweeps

Death by Sweep: How Anti-Homeless Legislation Kills

Get the Invisible People newsletter