A local artist found respite at SVdP

Life was all good for Marcus Huggins. His fun-loving nature and gregarious smile were a constant. His grandmother tagged him with the nickname “Big Paper” when he was around 10-years old, and it's still what he’s called by most. Big Paper grew up in a close-knit family, had a steady job, a home, strong friendships, social connections, and a big musical interest and background, all of which gave him a sense of purpose. 

Then, he lost his mother in 2017, and the pandemic era after that hit him particularly hard: He lost his best friend and father three months apart in 2021. 

“It’s hard losing your mom and a few years later losing your best friend and dad in a short period of time like that,” Big Paper said. “Family is family” he added before pausing and fighting back tears.   

The grief and emotional toll led to depression and eventually the loss of his job and his home. 

“I was sleeping in my truck for about a year. I managed to do some Uber jobs to pick up some money and sometimes get a hotel,” he said. 

But Big Paper needed something more steady offering more pay. Fortunately, his path brought him to a St. Vincent de Paul staffer who told him about the services and transitional housing at SVdP.  

“I like the people here,” Big Paper said.  “They get you going. They get you motivated, and I’m able to sleep now and stretch all the way out." 

Recently, his caseworker helped him find job interviews, and keeps himself busy driving pick-up and delivery jobs at night. He also finds time to delve into his love for music. In fact, Big Paper has been doing shows and events for major artists like “50 Cent”, “Snoop Dogg” and “Ice Cube.” 

Big Paper is also a huge Phoenix Suns fan, and he’s written and performed a Suns anthem, though he still has some tweaks and adjustments to make. 

“When I’m done with the Phoenix Suns anthem and release, I just want to see the fan’s reaction,” he said. “Every word I put into the song shows love and history. I’ve loved the Suns since I was a little kid. I’m hoping the song will give Suns fans something to appreciate.”