When Aaron arrived at Tempe Community Action Agency’s I-HELP shelter, he had already faced more challenges than he ever imagined. A hardworking man from Michigan, Aaron spent over a decade in the concrete business while taking side jobs to build his own company. But when the pandemic hit, he struggled to keep his business afloat. Without the right financial know-how, he pivoted—earning his CDL and driving a dump truck to make ends meet.
Then, in 2021, his health took a devastating turn. He developed spine issues, and doctors discovered a tumor that required immediate surgery. After months of recovery and rehabilitation, Aaron moved to Arizona to stay with family while he healed. He was using a walker but managing—until his savings ran out.
A difficult family disagreement left Aaron without a place to stay. With nowhere to go, he found himself walking the streets, unsure of his next steps. When he called his doctor and admitted he was homeless, he was connected to TCAA. Determined to reach help, he began walking—a journey that took over 12 hours, as he could only walk 200 feet before needing to rest.
For the first time in his life, Aaron was without a home. The reality hit hard. “It’s tough because you can’t just ‘be’ anywhere when you’re homeless. You have to keep moving,” he said. Fortunately, I-HELP had an open bed, and Aaron found a safe place to rest.
At the shelter, he was able to focus on healing. Ironically, the walking that once exhausted him became part of his recovery. With support from staff like Melinda and Tina, he set new, realistic goals. He applied for disability and job opportunities, knowing that just one change could help him get back on his feet.
Aaron has come to see homelessness differently. He once believed the stereotypes—until he met others in the shelter with even tougher stories. “It breaks my heart that I didn’t help before. It can happen to anyone.”
Thanks to I-HELP, Aaron no longer goes hungry. “A full belly makes a big difference,” he shared. He’s deeply grateful for the meal providers, staff, and volunteers who make the program possible. “If they would allow it, I’d like to hug them,” he said.
Aaron found full-time employment and is working toward having a place to call his own.
“I have a role in this community. I’m not sure what it is yet, but I have something to work for.”
