Larriel’s Story

Rediscovering his path!

“Not everyone experiencing homelessness is the same. Some of us are actively working to better ourselves. Wheeler Mission gives us the opportunity to do just that. They’re a vital resource, and they’re helping people get back on their feet.”

Sometimes, life takes unexpected turns, and finding the right path forward can be a challenge. For Larriel, a journey filled with change, courage, and resilience led him to Wheeler Mission in Bloomington, Indiana—a place where he could regain focus and take the next steps toward a brighter future.

Larriel’s story begins in Chicago, where he was born and lived until the age of 11. Over the years, he moved across the Southwest, living in cities from Los Angeles to Oklahoma City. After caring for a loved one in their final days, Larriel found himself at a crossroads.

“Before I came to Wheeler Mission, I felt aimless. I was grasping at straws, trying to figure out what steps to take first.”

With no ties holding him back, he decided to move north, to Bloomington, Indiana, seeking new opportunities and a fresh start. Yet, the transition wasn’t without its challenges. Health issues requiring surgeries on both arms, coupled with job and housing uncertainties, made the path forward daunting.

At Wheeler Mission, Larriel found more than just a roof over his head. He discovered a place that offered stability, practical resources, and support. The mission helped him obtain essential documentation, like his birth certificate and state ID, connected him to a primary care physician, and guided him toward housing and job opportunities.

“Wheeler Mission has been a lifeline for me,” Larriel said. “They’ve helped me get my resources in order and guided me in what steps I need to take next. But they also make it clear—you have to put in the effort yourself. They’re here to support you, not do it all for you.”

The staff at Wheeler Mission played a pivotal role in helping Larriel regain his focus. Their genuine care and commitment left a lasting impression. “This isn’t just a shelter,” he shared. “They provide so much more support than other places I’ve been. They truly care and go above and beyond to help.”

Now, Larriel is looking to the future with optimism. With a background in IT and years of experience in network management, he hopes to return to the field. For now, he’s working on regaining his stability, one step at a time.

“I’m thankful to Wheeler Mission because they’ve helped me stay focused,” Larriel said. “They’ve given me the tools and connections I need to move forward.”

Watch Larriel’s story here: Watch

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