Justin Wagner

A Place of Hope

By Justin Wagner | October 25, 2023

Nashville Launch Pad aims to shelter, house homeless queer youth with new Mobile Housing Navigation Center.

Lyndon Vetetoe just moved into a Nashville apartment – and it’s a victory 13 years in the making

By Justin Wagner | October 11, 2023

“It’s about more than the dollar. You’re accepted as somebody, as a real person.”

After eight years unhoused, Ladell Walker thanks God and the city for his new apartment

By Justin Wagner | September 27, 2023

“I go home and meditate now … I always just meditate on God. I stay focused, put all my trust in God, meditate and listen to the gospel. I feel … alright.”

Junkdrop will find a new home for your old furniture, far from the landfill

By Justin Wagner | August 30, 2023

Junkdrop’s mission is clear. It takes unwanted home goods and furniture to the doorsteps of low-income apartments in need of furnishing.

Michael Reed will keep on moving

By Justin Wagner | August 2, 2023

The Nashville skyline is one of countless horizons Michael Reed has glimpsed over his 57 years.

Beverly Gallaher can’t be kept down

By Justin Wagner | July 5, 2023

Since Beverly Gallaher started selling The Contributor in 2014, it’s helped her remain active and present in the community.

Housing Surges

By Justin Wagner | June 21, 2023

When homeless encampments close, residents are forced to scatter. If not housing, where can they go?

As winter turns to spring, Charles Johnson finally has a room of his own

By Justin Wagner | April 26, 2023

“I’m glad I’m off the streets, I ain’t gotta worry about the rain and cold anymore, you know what I’m saying?”

It’s a crazy world out there —and Pedro Lopez is off to see it

By Justin Wagner | February 15, 2023

When Pedro Lopez goes out to sell The Contributor, he appreciates what he gets — but he relishes the chance to give. More than just letting that paper go, he tries to pay forward as many little blessings as he can. “A lot of people don’t know what you’re going through,” Lopez said. “And I wanna shout out the people who bless me with the paper. I give them gifts — even if it’s small, little things, I give ‘em.