Nathan Begins Anew—Thanks to Back Bay Mission

By Taylor New, marketing & development coordinator, Back Bay Mission

Nathan was previously unsheltered, living in his car. Today, he has a place to call home thanks to Back Bay Mission (BBM) in Biloxi, Miss.

An absolute joy to have around campus, Nathan received wrap-around services in BBM’s Micah Day Center after becoming displaced and unsheltered while seeking a better life for himself. You’d often find him at Back Bay Mission jumping to help whenever needed with a smile on his face. Most recently, he helped direct parking traffic during Back Bay Mission’s Health & Resource fair. Nathan diligently waited with his orange vest in the parking lot, lovingly directing folks on where to go.

Meanwhile, he was working diligently with Back Bay Mission case managers and housing programs. For several months, Nathan and the team worked together and was able to secure housing through Back Bay Mission’s ESG funding (Emergency Solutions Grant).

“This transition has been life changing for me,” Nathan said. “From leaving Illinois and escaping addiction, to now having housing and a wonderful community behind me.”

With help from Back Bay Mission staff members Michael, Terra, Jared, Dhiana, and Taylor, Nathan was able to move into his new home already containing a bedframe and mattress. 

Like many neighbors transitioning out of homelessness, Nathan is still rebuilding and lacks some everyday essentials. But today, he has a safe place to begin again.

“Having housing means stability for me,” he said. “I can actually breathe without having to worry where to go next. It means I can turn off survival mode and actually navigate life.

“Thank you guys so much for all you have done for me! Back Bay Mission is the absolute best! Y’all are super heroes!”