Frederick Battle has lived in Austin for three years. But finding a home was not as easy. Even though he's a veteran, he says his criminal history and credit history left him with few choices.

“The choices I had were either to move into rooming houses, border houses or sober houses where there are like two to three guys to a room,” said Battle.

That was until Skyline Terrace opened its doors. It's owned by the local nonprofit -- Foundation Communities. Walter Moreau is the executive director and has seen success stories.

“I'm thinking of one in particular -- had sort of a downward spiral -- alcohol and some tragic family situations. Went through rehab, then found himself at Garden Terrace. He had an electrician's license -- which he had lost -- but he was able to take the test again, get the license, worked at the Dell Children's Hospital -- started making too much money, so he had to move on,” said Moreau.

And that's part of the plan -- beyond putting a roof over someone's head -- programs are in place to give residents life and job skills.

“I'm going to cosmetology school, so hopefully I’ll use that money to start a little business,” said Battle.

That means, rather than living day to day, Battle is now focused on the future.

The people who live at Skyline Terrace must make less than $25,000. Rent will range from $373 to $498 a month.