Help Brandon Rebuild His Life After Homelessness and Addiction

Hi, my name is Sierra Allwine, and this is my brother, Brandon. We’re both proud Colorado natives — born and raised here, and we love everything about this state: the Broncos, green chili, our beautiful mountains, and most importantly, our community.

For the past six years, I’ve worked as a social worker in Denver, supporting people experiencing homelessness and helping hundreds transition into housing. Now, I find myself using that same knowledge and compassion to help my own brother through that very process.

Brandon has faced incredible challenges in his life, including extensive childhood trauma. Yet through it all, he has shown remarkable resilience and kindness. He loves helping others and is deeply devoted to his family and friends.

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, everything changed for him. Brandon lost his job of 10 years, lived in unsafe housing, lost a close friend, and eventually found himself without a home for about three years — living on the streets of Denver and Lakewood while struggling with addiction.

Those years were devastating for both of us. I often didn’t know where he was or if he was safe, but I held onto faith that one day we’d reconnect.

That day finally came.

Brandon was accepted into one of Denver’s Tiny Home Villages, and with their support, he was able to move into an apartment for a year. Now, he is 90 days sober and completely dedicated to maintaining his recovery and rebuilding his life. Assistance will end after a year, which we are trying to prepare for.

However, as many know, this transition can be incredibly difficult. Brandon is starting over and lacks many of the basic necessities needed to live, work, and heal. I’ve created this GoFundMe to help him access the tools and items that can make a world of difference as he takes these next steps.

All donations will go directly toward essentials such as:

A phone and temporary phone plan for job searching and staying in contact

A bed and bedding for his new apartment

Cleaning supplies (things SNAP doesn’t cover) and a vacuum

Transportation costs (Uber gift cards, bus tickets, etc. for interviews and probation)

Winter clothing — boots, jacket, gloves, hat

Job interview attire — slacks, jeans, button-ups, etc.

Hygiene items — hair clippers, first aid supplies, etc.

Enjoying life again — a pizza night, a movie with family, or internet for connection

Big ticket items: a laptop and TV with a digital antenna

Brandon doesn’t know I’m doing this. He’s always been someone who doesn’t want to burden others, but as his sister, I’m doing this because I finally have my brother back — and I want to give him every chance to thrive.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for reading, sharing, or donating. Every bit of support helps him move one step closer to stability, healing, and hope.

Thank you for helping us make this new chapter possible.