Tyreesha  grew up in Vancouver, WA, and described her childhood as loving and filled with laughter. Upon graduating high school Tyreesha moved to Seattle to pursue a degree in Latin American and Caribbean studies at the University of Washington. During this time, she was employed by an overnight shelter for youth. Tyreesha was emotionally spent from her job, seeing firsthand how homelessness disproportionally affects certain populations. She met with artist SassyBlack to share her story. Stay tuned for SassyBlack's song! 

Xavier made the ultimate sacrifice. He left his family at age 18 and became homeless so his family could continue to receive the government funds they needed. Xavier found hope through the Y. Singer-songwriter, ParisAlexa, met with Xavier to learn what he's been through and where he hopes to go next. Stay tuned for ParisAlexa's song! 

Philip left an unsafe home life and tried to make it on his own, but had few resources. He turned to the Y for support. With a roof over his head, a counselor to talk to, and job training - Philip found the stability he needed to grow. Local singer-songwriter, Ryan Shannon, sat down with Philip to hear his story. Together, they created a song that amplifies the voices of young adults experiencing homelessness.  

Ellen found herself surrounded by a crowd of drug users. She quickly became addicted to heroin at a young age, and which ultimately led her to a jail cell. After serving time, Ellen was referred by King County Drug Court to YAIT, the Y’s transitional housing facility downtown. Ellen talked with artist LeRoy Bell. Stay tuned for a song by LeRoy that sheds light on Ellen's story. 

At a young age, Peter was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and depression. His parents lacked the resources to care for him, so at  the age of seven they sent him off to multiple institutions around the county in hopes that he could find the care he needed. When he turned 18, Peter lived with his uncle in Washington for a brief period, but was kicked out and left to find housing of his own. Peter sat down with artist Scarlet Parke. Stay tuned for a song by Scarlet that amplifies Peter's story.