From Homelessness to Hope:

From Homelessness to Hope:
Ester and Ector’s Journey to Stability
For years, Ester Salas Menchaca and her husband, Ector, faced the harsh realities of homelessness, navigating uncertainty with resilience and faith. Their journey was filled with hardship, but through perseverance and support, they found not just shelter—but a renewed sense of purpose and belonging.
A Devastating Setback
Ester’s struggle began in August 2020 when she became the victim of a rental scam that left her without a home. With nowhere stable to turn, she cycled between living in her car and temporary hotel stays—all while caring for her special needs son and supporting her husband, who was battling heart problems. Losing her job only deepened the crisis, forcing her to make heartbreaking decisions that separated her from her family.
"It killed me knowing I had to leave my son and grandbabies behind," she shared.
Ector, too, experienced the weight of instability. Since 2021, he had struggled to secure consistent housing. He spent much of his time watching over his step-grandkids, but when Ester lost her job, their situation became even more dire.
"I was just tired—tired of worrying about where we would sleep at night," he admitted.
A Turning Point
Amid their struggles, they encountered a Navigator, a caseworker who offered them a pathway to stability. Though hesitant at first, they accepted the opportunity with cautious hope.
"The first thing I did was take a long bath, then a long shower," Ester recalled. "Then I slept."
Ector, equally exhausted, did the same.
Adjusting to life in a shelter wasn’t easy. Ester took months to open up, while Ector initially kept to himself. But over time, with the unwavering support of caseworkers and staff, their walls slowly came down.
"Our Navigator, Chevelle Parks, helped us so much," Ester said, expressing deep gratitude. Ector echoed the sentiment: "She was on it and helped us a lot."
Healing and Growth
For Ester and Ector, the shelter became more than just a place to sleep—it became a place of healing and transformation.
Ester confronted past trauma and learned to prioritize self-care. "I realized I need to be selfish sometimes when it comes to my health," she said. "I am important, just like everyone else."
Ector also experienced personal growth. "I needed help. I couldn’t do it on my own," he admitted.
A New Beginning
Now housed and stable, their lives have changed in profound ways. Ester cherishes her time with her grandchildren, a joy she longed for during her years of instability. While Ector is quieter in his reflections, his gratitude speaks volumes.
"Be patient, stay positive, and be grateful," he advised others still on their journey.
Their message to those struggling is one of hope and perseverance:
"Get up, get out of your room, don’t isolate yourself," Ester urged. "People do care. You just have to be willing to ask for help."
Ector added: "Nobody deserves to be homeless."
The Power of Community
Ester and Ector’s story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of community support. With faith, determination, and the right resources, they have stepped into a future filled with hope and stability—proving that no matter how difficult the journey, a new beginning is always possible.