People of Pillars

Welcome to the “People of Pillars: A Portrait Gallery.” Every weekday in December, we will be sharing a portrait of an individual or individuals receiving services from Pillars as clients, tenants, or program participants. This gallery is an opportunity for the community to learn more about what the reality of homelessness is in the Fox Valley from those with lived experience.

It is important to note that all of the individuals featured in this gallery participated voluntarily and are willingly sharing their stories with you; however, their names have been changed to protect their privacy. Any statements, views, and opinions shared by these individuals are their own and are not endorsed by Pillars in any way. Conversations with these individuals were captured on Tuesday, November 2, 2022. Additional follow-up information about their journey to housing may be added separately as needed to bring their story up-to-date.

Harsh Reality of Homelessness

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This is an encampment lived in by individuals experiencing homelessness near a bridge in Appleton created with items found on the street. The Pillars Street Outreach team identified the structure and keeps in regular contact with the individuals there to monitor how they are doing and refer them to any resources they need. (Photo Credit: Adam Hilbelink, November 2, 2022)