Robert is a longtime Colorado resident who moved to Denver about eight years ago in search of opportunity. A trained electrician and rock climber, he now spends his time playing chess on 16th Street Mall—a game he’s deeply passionate about. He describes it as his outlet, a way to relieve stress and find presence.
He lost his job during the COVID pandemic when construction sites downsized and apprentices like him were let go first. Since then, he's been sleeping on the streets. His story reflects a common thread: many in his situation could rebuild their lives if given stable housing. He insists that if housing were available—just a basic place he could afford—he would maintain it and wouldn’t be on the street. His message is simple but powerful: give people a foothold, and they’ll stand on their own.
