The Hope Connection

In this episode of The Hope Connection, host Nina sits down with Krystal Treviño, a devoted mother and determined woman rebuilding her life after experiencing homelessness. When Krystal lost her job as a restaurant manager, she faced unimaginable challenges, including the loss of stable housing and the temporary separation from her children. Returning to San Antonio, she found support and a pathway forward at Haven for Hope, where she accessed housing resources, job readiness programs, and family emergency services.With determination and the help of Haven’s supportive programs, Krystal has regained employment, secured an apartment, and is preparing for a new chapter with her family. Her story is a powerful reminder that homelessness can happen to anyone, but with compassion, community, and persistence, recovery is possible.“Homelessness can happen in the blink of an eye,” Krystal shares. “What matters is that you don’t give up.”

In this episode of The Hope Connection, we meet Karen, a South Campus client at Haven for Hope. Originally from Mexico, Karen built a career as a substance abuse counselor, dedicating her life to helping others. After facing her own struggles with alcohol, she experienced a period of instability that ultimately led to homelessness.Karen has now been at Haven for a year, where she has embraced the services, community, and sense of safety offered on campus. She often connects with fellow clients, encouraging them to share their own stories, and hopes to one day return to her profession in counseling. Above all, Karen is grateful to feel seen, valued, and supported as she works toward her next chapter and, eventually, permanent housing.

In this episode of The Hope Connection, Nina speaks with Heidi, a resilient woman staying in Haven for Hope’s South Campus women’s dorm. Since arriving in 2023, Heidi has been working toward employment, deepening her faith, and healing from challenges with mental health and brain seizures. She shares her hopes of reconciling with her adult daughter and moving into a home of her own next year.Heidi also reflects on the transition from mats on the floor to bunk beds—a change that has brought her both comfort and safety. Having a lower bunk has eased her daily life, helping her rest more securely while managing her health.With honesty and courage, Heidi reminds us that homelessness is often misunderstood and calls for more compassion and opportunity. “We are doing the best we can,” she says, offering a powerful message to potential employers and the broader community: each person deserves dignity, respect, and a chance to rebuild.Watch the full episode of Heidi's story on Spotify and Haven's YouTube channel and catch a new episode of The Hope Connection every Thursday at 3 PM.

In this episode of The Hope Connection, Nina sits down with Mary, a South Campus client who shares her journey of resilience and determination. After losing her job and apartment, Mary found support at Haven for Hope during a pivotal time—the transition from mats on the floor to bunk beds for women on South Campus.Mary reflects on how something as simple as a bed has restored her sense of dignity, safety, and rest, allowing her to focus on her job search and future goals. With a background in banking, she is determined to find work and move toward a home of her own. Mary also challenges common misconceptions about homelessness, reminding us that each story is unique and worthy of respect.Her words are a powerful reminder that compassion, understanding, and opportunity can change lives.Watch the full episode of Mary's story on Haven's YouTube channel and catch a new episode of The Hope Connection every Thursday at 3 PM.

In this episode of The Hope Connection, we talk with Michael, a talented local chef who turned to Haven for support after losing his job and facing serious health challenges. During a difficult period of living unhoused, Michael found community and resources at Haven that helped him begin rebuilding his life.“You have no idea how grateful I am,” Michael shares, expressing his appreciation for the support he’s received. Now, as he searches for new job opportunities, he looks forward to giving back to the place that helped him get back on his feet.Join us to hear Michael’s heartfelt story of resilience, gratitude, and hope for the future.

In this episode of The Hope Connection, we hear from Marivel, a resilient and candid individual who has faced homelessness from a young age. In her journey to survive, Marivel navigated life on the streets while struggling to meet her most basic needs. After experiencing incarceration and time at a state hospital, she has returned to Haven for Hope and is now working toward stability and permanent housing through our supportive programs.Marivel’s story sheds light on the complex realities of survival, trauma, and the hope for transformation. Her honesty and strength remind us that everyone deserves compassion, resources, and a second chance.Join us to hear Marivel’s powerful story of survival, resilience, and her ongoing journey toward healing and stability.

In this episode of The Hope Connection, we spoke with Blanca, a long-time South Campus client turned North Campus client about her time at Haven and how a bad relationship led her to homelessness."People discriminate against people who are homeless. I never dreamed about being homeless," Blanca says.

In this moving episode of The Hope Connection, we meet Stephan, a creative and resilient individual who found himself at Haven for Hope after a series of painful and life-changing events. Stephan shares openly about the heartbreak of losing his housing, being separated from his wife, and being arrested while trying to hold onto the last pieces of his life—including his music equipment and creative dreams. Despite these setbacks, Stephan is finding hope, healing, and stability through the supportive services at Haven.Since arriving, Stephan has received new glasses, dental care, and—perhaps most importantly—help securing essential documents like his social security card and ID, which had previously felt out of reach because he was born in Germany. These steps are helping him rebuild with dignity and determination. Through it all, Stephan stays focused on his goals: restoring his relationship, finding housing, and growing spiritually and emotionally. His story is one of love, faith, and the power of second chances.“This place here is very special to me… Haven helped me get my ID, my glasses, my social security card… Without them, I wouldn’t know what to do.”

In this episode of The Hope Connection, we meet Leonardo "Lenny" Moreno, a resilient member of the Haven community who is working toward a fresh start. After experiencing homelessness and spending months sleeping in a park, Leonardo turned to Haven for support. While here, he has accessed essential resources like SSI assistance, ID recovery, and transitional housing services—all with the goal of regaining stability and moving forward.Despite facing hardships, including a serious accident that left him injured, Leonardo remains determined. He gives back by volunteering his time at Haven, helping with daily tasks, and uplifting those around him. He shares his perspective on the journey of rebuilding:"This place here is a good place to be. A lot of people don't look at it that way. It's supposed to be a transition, right? You come in here, take care of your business. Even though you hit bottom, you're going to go back up."Join us to hear Leonardo’s inspiring story of perseverance, hope, and the power of community

In this episode of The Hope Connection, we meet James, a community member who found hope and healing at Haven after his van — his home — was impounded. Through Haven’s services, James discovered he had experienced a stroke and was connected to life-changing medical care.Reflecting on his journey, James shares: "Thank goodness for this place. They helped me access health care and mental health support when I was struggling. Now, I'm happy to be alive."Join us to hear James’s inspiring story of resilience, recovery, and the power of compassionate care.

In this episode of The Hope Connection, we meet Kirby, a resilient individual who turned to Haven for support after a life-changing work injury left him without stable housing. After experiencing homelessness for two and a half years, Kirby found hope and community at Haven’s South Campus before transitioning to North Campus, where he continues using every available resource to rebuild his life and secure housing.When asked what he wants people to understand about homelessness, Kirby shares a powerful message: "The way I see it, people need to stop judging and start helping."Join us to hear Kirby’s story of perseverance, hope, and the impact of compassion.

In this episode of The Hope Connection, Nina shares a heartfelt conversation with Constance, a resilient individual currently finding support at Haven's South Campus. After bravely leaving an abusive relationship, Constance sought refuge in a domestic violence shelter with her children. Facing immense challenges, she reached out for mental health care during a time of deep distress. Over the past four and a half years, Constance has navigated her healing journey with courage and determination. She openly shares her story of working towards reunifying with her children, securing stable housing, and prioritizing her well-being.Join us as Constance’s powerful journey reminds us of the strength and hope that can emerge through community, support, and self-compassion.

In this episode of The Hope Connection, we meet Venus, a determined young woman who came to Haven after aging out of the foster care system. After experiencing homelessness for three years, she is now focused on reclaiming her future—working toward earning her diploma and pursuing college. While staying at Haven, Venus is utilizing resources like ID recovery services and other programs designed to help her build stability and achieve her dreams. Through it all, she holds onto a powerful message: “Be kind. Kindness goes a long way. The energy you give to the world is going to come back to you.” Join us as Venus shares her inspiring journey of perseverance, hope, and the power of community.

In this episode of The Hope Connection, we sit down with Dave, a Haven community member courageously navigating his path toward stable housing. Dave shares his journey of resilience after a series of unexpected health challenges and the heartbreaking loss of his wife, which led to financial struggles and housing instability.Before experiencing homelessness, Dave had a fulfilling career, owned a home, and was looking forward to retirement. When he and his son lost their housing, they found temporary shelter in their car — until it broke down, leading them to seek support at Haven."Homelessness can happen to anybody. I don't care how rich you think you are or how much money you have, it can hit you in the blink of an eye," Dave reflects, offering a powerful reminder of life’s unpredictability and the importance of compassion.Join us to hear Dave’s moving story of perseverance, love for his family, and hope for the future.

In this episode of The Hope Connection, we sit down with Timothy, a community member currently finding support at Haven. Timothy bravely shares his journey of living with alcoholism and how self-discipline, hope, and the resources at Haven have empowered him to navigate recovery and embrace personal growth.His path began at Haven’s South Campus, eventually leading him to the Pay It Forward program, where he continued building a foundation for lasting change. As of this interview, Timothy is celebrating an incredible milestone — eight months of sobriety."They [Haven] will give you the help, but you have to put in the work," Timothy shares, reflecting on his commitment to his healing journey.Join us to hear Timothy’s inspiring story, a testament to resilience and the power of community.

The Hope Connection: 10 minutes. One story. Endless hope.The Hope Connection is an inspiring interview series that gives homeless individuals at Haven for Hope a platform to share their stories in 10-minute conversations.Through personal narratives of resilience, courage, and hope, the series aims to foster empathy, challenge stereotypes, and highlight the humanity behind homelessness.Each episode provides a glimpse into unique journeys, celebrating the strength and spirit of individuals often overlooked by society.