As Austin grows, so does its homeless population. Homelessness happens for many reasons. It may be an unexpected large bill, escaping an abusive relationship, addiction, mental illness or job loss. Austin is not an inexpensive city to live in. Rent for a one bedroom apartment near public transportation is simply not affordable for someone working a minimum wage job. Rooms for rent are often not affordable. Some of our homeless residents are fortunate enough to have tents to protect them from the elements but where can they camp, be near food and services as well as public transportation? Some choose to live outdoors because the shelters are full or not safe. The answer is that no one has found the right answer.

Photographer Jay Janner has been documenting the homeless crisis since the Spring of 2019. He has met people and listened to their stories. He has helped lost friends be found and sheltered. His photos reassured a mother across the country that her son was alive and well when she could not get in touch with him. Janner has seen public support, fear and outrage. He has worked hard to remain impartial and simply document what he is seeing, which may or may not be what the public is seeing. The homeless residents of Austin are our neighbors and need help finding a safe and secure place to live.

-Nell Carroll, Director of Visuals