How Michael Found Housing
Michael’s Background
Michael built a steady life through hard work. Starting in the early 1980s, he climbed water, radio, and cellular towers hundreds of feet in the air. He installed equipment that helps keep people connected every day. It was demanding and dangerous work, the type that requires skill and discipline.
Homelessness was never something Michael imagined could happen to him.
But during the upheaval of the COVID-19 pandemic, a series of personal and housing setbacks changed everything. Suddenly, Michael found himself alone and without a place to call home. Even then, he refused to give up. He continued working, holding a full-time job as a cook while living in a tent. He biked miles to work and back and relied on campground facilities to shower.
Deeply Affordable, Supportive Housing
Michael describes himself as a survivalist, but living outside wasn’t easy.
When Michael reached out for help, Catholic Charities was there for him — providing an apartment at Dorothy Day Residence.
Catholic Charities Dorothy Day Residence is home to more than 150 people in St. Paul.
Residents come home to furnished rooms, free laundry, a computer lab, and supportive staff who help them work toward their goals.
“I was welcomed, and I was given a room and a place, and offered many different opportunities,” Michael said.
A safe apartment, a supportive community, and a place to regain his footing made all the difference for Michael. Catholic Charities became the foundation for his next chapter.
“The opportunity of three meals a day, staff on hand to help you get through difficulties, and having your own room — it all matters,”
A New Home and Place to Rebuild
Michael’s apartment is just up the stairs from another Catholic Charities program: the Saint Paul Opportunity Center. There people can get a hot meal and connect to services like laundry, haircuts, resources for veterans, and more. For Michael, those supports created stability during a difficult season of life.
“The opportunity of three meals a day, staff on hand to help you get through difficulties, and having your own room — it all matters,” Michael said.
Every day, staff provide guidance, encouragement, and practical support. Case managers and social workers help people find housing and work toward long-term goals. Just as importantly, they build relationships rooted in trust and dignity.
Moving Forward with Help from Catholic Charities
Michael said that one of the greatest strengths of Catholic Charities is the people.
“I’ve always had good assistance here at Catholic Charities,” Michael said. “I feel very comfortable with the workers that I have here.”
Today, Michael continues rebuilding his life while looking ahead to the future. For Michael, having a safe room and reliable support created the foundation he needed to move beyond day-to-day survival. Now he enjoys simple things he loves like riding his bike, heading outdoors, or spending some time fishing.
Michael also hopes to use his experiences to help others who face similar challenges.
