A stop at a relative’s house for a shower turned into a turning point for Marc Johnson.
Johnson, 65, said he had been in and out of homelessness for 40 years and was sleeping on cardboard outside in south Phoenix in 2024 when he saw an ABC15 news story about Entryway.
“Trying to get something to eat, get some rest and get out of the elements and I was just watching the news ABC15,” Johnson said.
The story was about Entryway, a non-profit that partners with apartment complexes and multi-family housing providers to help people get jobs and discounted housing. Johnson said it inspired him to call.
He then worked with Entryway executive director Mandy Porter-Griffith, who helped him find shelter and workforce trainings.
Soon after, Johnson got a job with PB Bell at a Phoenix apartment complex. He said he tests pool chemicals, handles maintenance concerns and has learned new skills on the job.
“I didn’t know anything about air conditioners, dishwashers, none of this stuff. Now I can take a sink out, I can do all this stuff now,” Johnson said.
Johnson said his health tracker shows he walks 13 miles a day at work.
He now has his own car and his own furnished place, and he is celebrating 16 months in his own apartment.
Johnson said he is still training and hopes to earn a promotion to leasing agent.
“I kept on pushing and having faith. Now I just want to be obedient and help other people and give them hope,” Johnson said.
Read more from ABC15.
