Mark

At 19-years-old, Mark’s life took a sharp turn. He was living with his father in Harlem, studying electrical mechanical engineering, and engaged to his high school sweetheart. Then his mother lost her apartment, and Mark had a major falling out with his father. Unable to stay with other family, Mark felt lost and became homeless. Continuing school while homeless was difficult and Mark was forced to drop out. Mark couch surfed between friends and a men’s shelter, but still felt unsafe.

It wasn’t until Mark was referred to Streetwork Project that he found a sense of stability. At the Uptown Drop-In Center, Streetwork helped him find a spot at the Overnight Shelter where he lived for two to three months and was provided with opportunities to help lead workshops for other young people.

Harlem has always been home for Mark. Morningside Park is where he would pick his sister up from school and walk friends home at night. This area still feels like home to him, places where he feels rooted and connected to his past.