The homeless population on island seems to be growing and many of them are in major need of assistance. KUAM News brings you to the island's capital, where there was a one-stop event creating a pathway in hopes to get them out of homelessness. 

The annual Passport to Services is all about assisting those who need it most. We spoke with several people experiencing homelessness or who used to be homeless who now have a message of hope.

From those on the road to recovery like Santa Rita resident Keoni Terlaje, who said, "I was an addict and I’m basically trying to seek recovery", to those currently experiencing homelessness like Robert Blas, explaining, "Family violence for three years."

And to those who found their way back on their feet like Mongmong resident Scotdy Aguon. He said, "I finally got a place to stay. I’ve been homeless for 10 years."

People from all walks of life gathered at the annual event in Hagatna on Friday.  Anthony Cruz with the Veteran Affairs Office shared how the annual one-stop event creates a pathway out of homelessness, telling KUAM News, "It’s a one-stop really. It’s a place if you need housing, there’s GHURA. If you need shots, Public Health is here. If you’re a veteran, the VA is here."

Today, Cruz is a volunteer and is providing his services as a DJ to keep the event lively.  But several years ago, he never imagined he would be without a place to call home. 

"It was hard to find a place, even for a one bedroom and I had my two daughters with me so it was really hard. We were going from family members to friends, living in their garage, living at Gun Beach before it was Gun Beach, and taking showers at Ypao Beach park before they start to close it," he recalled.

It’s a tough time many can relate to. "Finding a place to sleep is the hardest part. Not too many places welcome homeless people," said Cruz.

It’s why those like Cruz and Aguon are keeping the cycle of giving going, the former saying, "Now I'm planning to help others that are less fortunate that are still out on the streets, help them get housing and help them get financial assistance by guiding them where they can go."

Aguon concluded, "Hopefully, one day, we can end homelessness here on Guam."