Alonza, 41, sits in Civic Center Park reflecting on life after serving 17 years in prison for robbery. He speaks openly about the difficulty of re-entry: leaving prison with nothing, facing homelessness, and struggling to reconnect with his daughter who now lives in Texas. He lacks essential documents like a Social Security card, which makes securing work and stability harder, especially during COVID-19 when offices are closed or limited.
Family remains central—his mother, battling cancer, can only see him sparingly, and his younger sister is his strongest support system. Despite setbacks, Alonza shows resilience, with his focus on building a future, reconnecting with his daughter, and helping others who are unhoused or struggling after incarceration.
