AUSTIN, Texas — The heated debate on homelessness in the Capital City is coming to a vote at the ballot box this May, as residents prepare to vote “Yes” or “No” on Proposition B.

Proposition B will prohibit sitting, lying and camping in public areas, as well as limit solicitation in certain areas. If passed, the ordinance will criminalize individuals who do not comply, resulting in fines and possible jail time.

Local groups such as Homes Not Handcuffs oppose criminalizing what they call, "an already vulnerable population."

“We want to end laws criminalizing homeless individuals and families. We want to build a comprehensive city wide system so no homeless person ever falls through the cracks again,” said Marina Roberts.

29-year-old, Marina Roberts walks through an Austin neighborhood with a purpose. With literature in hand she spends her day canvassing to spread awareness and clarity about homelessness in the city.

Roberts is fighting to end homelessness and be a constant voice for a community that is often overlooked and forgotten about as human beings.

“It is really emotionally difficult for me to listen to the way some folks talk about homeless people,” said Roberts.

Being a constant voice for the unhoused is personal for Roberts. Her closest brother is currently a part of that community. Roberts said, her brother suffered from mental health issues throughout his life and her family was unable to help him overcome them at the time. One day he walked out and never came back.

While she hasn’t been in contact with him for years, whenever she sees someone who is unhoused fitting his description, she can’t help but take a second look. Unfortunately, Roberts’ reality is the same for so many. Which is why she wants to provide clarity to residents before voting on Prop B.

“As a community it is our job to step up and help them get out of that hole. We have to fight. We have to change things. So they can get dignity, respect, so they can be safe again. You truly cannot be safe if you are living on the street,” said Roberts

Oftentimes, politics, misunderstanding and emotions cloud the practical side of fighting homelessness. But Roberts believes there is plenty of common ground and the discussion begins with talking to those experiencing it.

For now, neither state nor city leaders can agree on what to do next.

But Marina believes there is plenty of common ground and finding it starts with talking to those experiencing it.

"We’re not going to solve this problem without working directly with people on the streets.  They have to be part of the conversation. They have to be part of the solution. Because no one is in a better position to tell us what they need than the people who are living it right now,” said Roberts

Until then, Roberts will continue her call to action by making a difference and helping others, one step at a time.