After dating for nearly two years, Del Chambers, 51, and Bev England, 53, found themselves homeless in August of 2008 due to drug addictions and mismanagement of money. The couple then set up camp on the banks of the Olentangy River in Columbus, Ohio just south of Fifth Avenue and was later joined by Steve Paulton, 39, and Grady Marty, 51. Shortly after becoming homeless, the couple decided to break their lifelong drug addictions and get their life back in order. This photo story illustrates the couple’s struggle to survive and get back on their feet despite a haunting past.

This story initially came out of need for a picture story class at Ohio University. After some research I was informed that there was a “tent city” of homeless people near OSU campus in Columbus, Ohio. Little did I know that this group of people would soon become some of my best friends and teach me more than any class could ever offer. From the start Del was very open to the idea and told me to come back whenever, although I don’t think he expected me to come back nearly as often as I did. As time went on, I would drive to Columbus every weekend and spend the whole time with them down at their campsite or wherever they were at. Each time they were eager to have me tag along and live their life for a few days. It was around this time that the story transformed from a school project to a personal project and personal relationship. Each visit brought something new whether it be a day of dumpster diving in the freezing cold, hanging out at a friend’s apartment, going to soup kitchens, or just “shooting the bobo” around the campfire as they would call it. Other notable times include visiting Bev in the hospital when she got an eye infection, and witnessing how much they truly care for each other or going with Del to see his daughter for the first time in ten years and his granddaughter for the first time ever. What really made this project special to me was how much they opened up to me and shared their incredible life stories with me. Towards the end of the quarter, Del and Bev got approved for section 8 housing and were finally going to be getting a roof over their heads. I couldn’t think of a better way to end the quarter and story with.

Throughout the project, I have been continually self-reflecting and comparing my lifestyle to theirs. After spending the night outside in a tent in below freezing temperatures, my room is no longer cold. My computer is no longer slow. My cafeteria food no longer tastes so bad. My college workload is no longer a huge pain in the ass. All of these things are privileges and I have come to recognize this. While I may be done shooting this story full time, I plan on visiting Bev and Del every time I’m in town and checking in with them every so often. I am grateful for my time spent with them and the incredible access they gave me.

James Roh is a photojournalist currently located in Athens, Ohio studying photojournalism and sociology at Ohio University. He is passionate about good visual story telling that aims to increase compassion and understanding. Aside from photography, James believes in equality, the environment, and good vibes. More of his work can be seen at www.JamesRoh.com