Tito’s Story

We are grateful to have had the opportunity to sit down with Tito, a member of the Unhoused Union, and have a vulnerable and open conversation about his incredible story. During our time together, Tito shares his challenging journey through homelessness and personal struggles, highlighting the profound impact of his relationship with Marcus and the broader Mutual Aid network.

Born and raised in St. Louis, Tito describes a childhood filled with love from his parents, who saw him as a 'love baby,' a term he cherishes as it signifies being wanted and planned. Despite this affectionate upbringing, Tito's life took a tumultuous turn marked by the loss of his mother and all his brothers during his time in prison, plunging him into a deep depression and leading to periods of homelessness and suicide attempts.

The turning point in Tito's life came when he met Marcus, who managed the shelter where Tito was staying. Marcus's dedication to helping Tito reclaim his life exemplifies the essence of Mutual Aid — a commitment to setting aside one's own issues to support others in their time of need. This compassionate approach not only provided Tito with shelter but also offered him a sense of worth and belonging, knowing that there were people who genuinely cared about his well-being. Through Marcus' support and the broader Mutual Aid network, Tito began to find the strength to rebuild his life, underscoring the crucial role of community and interpersonal connections in overcoming personal adversities.