Housing for Alvin

I’d like to introduce the community to Alvin, a bright and kind 23-year-old who recently became houseless here in Miami. We are raising money to help Alvin get back on his feet and into safe and stable housing.

A bit of a backstory: A week ago, right before the tropical storm, I was walking around my neighborhood late at night, and I passed by Alvin as he slept in the alley behind my home. After speaking with him, he made it clear that despite having a job at a local grocery store, he has continuously struggled to find an affordable home, consistent meals, and stability due to low wages, inflation, and Miami’s ever-worsening housing crisis.

He’s now staying with me in my studio, but we're hoping that our community can come together to help raise funds for Alvin’s stable housing, food, and basic necessities that will get him back on his feet and living independently. Our goal is to raise $5,000 – which will go towards the following itemized expenses:

$3300 – First month, last month, and security deposit on a room share in North Miami. (The median price for shared housing is $1100)

$100 – Housing application fees and background checks.

$500 – Move-in basics like a mattress, pillow, bedding, towels, eating & cooking utensils, etc.

$200 – 2 months of essential bills like electricity, phone, and gas.

$300 – 2 months worth of groceries like non-perishable food, water, hygiene essentials like toilet paper, soap, etc.

$150 – Basic clothing, a pair of shoes, and a backpack.

$100 – To support with transportation during the housing search.

$350 – Rainy day money for unexpected expenses.

Every donation, no matter how small, will go directly to Alvin pursuit of stable and safe housing. Alvin likes to practice basic coding at the library and is searching for a chance to further his skills in web design and development. So we would also would greatly appreciate any help from the community regarding work opportunities or mentoring.