AUSTIN – The Challenger, a street paper in Austin, is providing a unique opportunity for the city’s unhoused population to earn money and share their stories.
Bob Schrey, one of the vendors, explained, “To be able to make some money, you know? Legally.” The paper, which is 95% written by those experiencing homelessness, is distributed by the same community.
Valerie Romness, a homeless advocate, shared that the idea for The Challenger emerged 15 years ago when some of her unhoused friends wanted a platform to tell their stories. “I’m like, why did you pick the challenger? And they said, because it’s challenging to be homeless. So we offer employment and independence,” Romness said.
The paper allows individuals to set their own hours and distribute copies on a donation basis.
Every Sunday, a team of 10 to 15 members gathers at City Hall or the Central Library to write articles and produce the monthly edition of 400 copies.
Clifton Pappas, who has been involved with the paper for over a year, emphasized its role in breaking stereotypes. “Not all unhoused people are drug addicts and or mentals,” he said. “Over 80% of America’s two checks from being right here.”
The paper not only provides financial support but also boosts morale. Pappas noted, “I stay to myself and get very reclusive and standoffish and out of the way, but put the paper in my hand. How you doing?”
Vendors like Schrey collect 100% of the donations from paper sales, which helps them access essential resources. “Place to get a meal, uh, or some clothing or whatever resources I might need,” Schrey said.
He believes this job will help him obtain identification for a higher-paying job and restore his identity. “It as well gives us, uh, uh, more dignity because we’re, we’re selling something to people and not just like asking, you know, hey, can you spare some change or something,” Schrey added.
The Challenger offers a hand up, not a handout, helping Austin’s unhoused regain their footing.