In October 2022, the Gayton family found themselves in a difficult situation, one that would last for more than a year following their eviction from their apartment. Instead of giving up, they turned adversity into hope.

Following eviction, Oscar and Ryondas Gayton started living in their van. They put black pillowcases up at night and made sure that their two daughters (ages 9 & 10) used the restroom before going to sleep at night. They rotated between Walmart parking lots to not bring attention to themselves. Their days consisted of going to the gym in the morning to freshen up and then heading over to the local library for the kids’ homeschooling. Oscar and Ryondas both worked different shifts so that the girls were always taken care of.

This routine continued for nearly a year before the Homeless Outreach Team at Responsibility House spotted the family one afternoon and began the process of rapid re-housing. They were referred to Catholic Charities’ Bridges to Self-Sufficiency Program, which is a rapid re-housing program that provides rental assistance and case management services to homeless families, with the hopes that they remain housed. 

“Their positive attitude through the midst of their hardship was very inspiring. Their desire to want more, and their faith in God was so indescribable that it made me want to go over and beyond the call of duty,” said Johnell Williams, director of the Bridges program and the Gayton’s case manager.

The housing search began immediately. Johnell worked closely with the couple to complete a housing application, obtained needed documents and assisted them with referrals to other vital resources to get them back on their feet.

December 2023 was one to remember. Just a few days before Christmas, housing was found for the family. Through Catholic Charities’ Adopt-a-Family program, Oscar and Ryondas were even able to put presents under the tree for their children.

Their journey still wasn’t done with its challenges. After a car accident left them without transportation, Oscar courageously rode his bike across the Huey P. Long Bridge to get to work! With rental assistance ending and a new baby in the mix, they faced steep hurdles together. Yet, with resilience and community support, they’re overcoming each obstacle.

“Oscar and Ryonda were so appreciative of all the assistance they received. Their eyes saw the surface of adversity and hardship, but their hearts saw the essence of life and existence beyond their reality,” Johnell said.