In 2015, Tristan was able to move out of the IRA
(Individual Residental Alternative) hewas living inwith
his brother and start his new life in an apartment in
Tonawanda. Through an Independent Housing grant,
Tristan was able to find a place that suited his needs
but still allowedhim easy access tohis brother andhis
parents.
“I grewuphere.My friendsare closeby,” he said. “I like
being onmy own. You get peace andquiet.”
Since moving in, Tristan has begun cooking his
own meals, paying his bills and maintaining his
daily schedule. Although Tristan had initially lacked
confidence in taking care of his finances, he learned
ways tohelphimbalancehismoney.
Partof the reasonTristanwanted to liveonhisownwas
tomeetnewpeople.He isveryactive inhiscommunity,
specifically with the local Boys and Girls Club. Tristan
spends a fewdays aweekhelping to coachand referee
different sports, set up equipment and cleanup.
“When it’s cold out, we’re in the club playing soccer
and basketball. In the summer, it’s baseball,” he said.
Tristan also enjoys playing baseball, soccer, basketball
and broom hockey. Currently, Tristan is looking into
different BOCES programs to learn new skills and
eventually openhis ownbusiness. He said he alsohas
an interest indrawing and tattoos.
Tristan
“I grewuphere.
My friends are
close by.”
Finding
Independence
