The Upshaw's: From Homelessness to Stability

Video link: https://youtu.be/P1ucWTTTE08?si=w0cuaFO4UZJDrajD

This is what can happen when SALT helps through every step of the way.

Johnny Upshaw arrived in Orlando with his sons after leaving Texas in search of stable housing. After an unsuccessful attempt to stay with family in Miami, the family relocated again, this time with no clear place to go.

Upshaw, a leg amputee, was traveling without a prosthetic, wheelchair, or walker. After getting off a Greyhound bus in Orlando, he and his sons walked through the city until he could no longer continue. During that time, they were unsheltered.

That day marked their first connection with SALT Outreach.

The family initially accessed basic services through SALT, including showers, laundry, and meals. They were then connected to a case manager through the organization’s Next Steps program, which focuses on assessing individual needs and creating a plan toward stability.

“Everything she said to me became a reality,” Upshaw said. "They got me back on my meds, helped me get a prosthetic and a wheelchair, and got us into shelter. Even then, SALT stayed with us every step of the way.”

With ongoing support, the Upshaw's transitioned from living on the street to emergency shelter, and eventually into permanent housing. During that time, Upshaw also received medical support, including HIV treatment, as well as assistance securing a prosthetic leg.

Today, the family remains housed.

Their involvement with SALT has continued beyond receiving services. Upshaw’s son now works with the organization as an outreach assistant, supporting individuals currently experiencing homelessness.

Rosalyn Upshaw, Johnny’s wife, was separated from the family during part of this time due to incarceration. She said being away while her family struggled was difficult.

“As a mother, it was hard knowing what my family was going through and not being able to help,” she said.

After returning, Rosalyn Upshaw began volunteering with SALT before applying for a staff position. She was hired and promoted within her first month.

She now works with the same organization that supported her family during a period of instability.

SALT Day Campaign

Stories like the Upshaw's are made possible through consistent access to resources and long-term support. Services like hygiene, case management, medical care, and housing navigation are not just helpful—they are often the turning point for individuals and families trying to regain stability.

With continued community support, more families, individuals, youth, and veterans can access these same opportunities and work toward outcomes like the Upshaw's.

As part of this effort, SALT Outreach has set a goal of raising $50,000 in two weeks through its SALT Day campaign.

Donations directly support the expansion of these services across the community.

Those interested in contributing or learning more can visit:https://secure.givelively.org/donate/salt-outreach-inc/salt-day-fundraiser-2026

Sustained support, whether through giving or sharing, helps ensure that more stories like this are possible.