Joseph Saavedra "Penny Man" Fund

In an unfortunate twist of fate, Joseph Saavedra —the founder of the Albuquerque NM charity “Pennies for the Homeless,” has been left homeless himself. One year ago, Joseph suffered a serious illness that almost took his life. For seven weeks he was at UNM Hospital where doctors tried to figure out what took away his ability to talk, walk, and use his arms and hands. After a series of tests, the doctors concluded it was a mystery illness.

When Joseph was finally stabilized, he was transferred to the Genesis Bear Canyon Rehab Facility for long term care where he remains today. Through sheer faith and willpower, Joseph has worked hard to regain the ability to talk, use his hands, and attempt to walk. He is determined to walk out of that facility, put his life back together, and once again help the homeless.

The funds raised from this effort will help Joseph with the medical care that he needs, and to hopefully find a home that will accommodate his current physical limitations. Joseph is known as the “Penny Man” because he has raised half a million dollars for the homeless over the last 25 years. The legendary hairstylist knows first hand how easy it is to end up on the streets. He was living out of his truck when he got sick. Joseph says, “In an instant, anyone’s life can be turned upside down and they can end up homeless - I’m living proof of that.”

Now, the Penny Man needs a little help himself - whether it’s pennies or much more! Thank you for all your concern, prayers, and donations!