Kirk is 39 and is from Detroit, MI. Kirk grew up in a single-family home where his mother had to work two jobs to take care of his two brothers and his sister. He admits that his mom struggled as a parent — and he had to be there a lot for her. Kirk often had to miss school so that he could take care of his little sister while his mother was at work. Kirk knew God since he was 10. He would sing in the choir and shyly confessed how he used to love to sing. When Kirk was asked what he wanted to be when he grew up, he chuckled and replied “a military police officer”. Life was always rough for him. He recounts moments in his life where he experienced killings and a lot of bad things. Kirk’s first night on the street was horrible. He had no clue what to do or where to go. He gives a nod to his friend Jamie, who has been on his side since. God motivates Kirk not give up. He also believes there are people on the street who motivate him as well. What’s his happiest moment so far in life? He says he hasn’t had a true happy moment, but “when it happens, he’ll know.” His saddest moment is that he continually misses his grandmother. She took care of him for half her life before he went to live with his mother. Kirk says the best advice for people in this situation is to stay strong, “Cuz some nights are worst than days.” Kirk asks that we continue to pray for his safety.

Painted by Scott Schaible