Frank Diaz, an unemployed boxer, finds himself and his family living in a homeless shelter for months. Finally, on Christmas Eve, they receive news that an apartment might be available. However, due to his lack of a legitimate job, the social worker informs him that he doesn't qualify for the apartment. In desperation, Frank recounts a story from his time in the army during the first Gulf War, which impresses the social worker enough to grant him a chance: he must secure a job before the end of the day.
With his resentful stepson, Justin, accompanying him, Frank sets off into the cold streets of New York in search of employment, his determination fueled by the hope of providing a real home for his family this Christmas morning. As they visit various places looking for work, they gradually bond and uncover hidden truths about each other. Frank's first stop is a construction contractor he's previously worked for under the table. Unfortunately, he is turned away for a legitimate position. Throughout their journey, they notice an old man who happens to be the contractor's father, searching for Frank to deliver an important letter.
As time runs out, Frank's attempts to find a job become increasingly disheartening. He briefly gets excited when offered a painting job at a school, only for the opportunity to vanish after a background check reveals his felony record. Frank's situation grows dire, leading him to shoplift in order to buy clothes, but in a twist of misfortune, he leaves the cash he needs for the apartment in the discarded clothing, making retrieval impossible without risking arrest.
Ultimately, time slips away, and instead of securing a new home, he takes his family out to dinner. Despite attempts from his wife to leave without paying—an unusual habit of hers—Frank stands firm. Outside their shelter, he encounters the man who had stolen his jacket earlier. In a moment of emotional turmoil, he confronts and beats the man to reclaim his jacket. Although Frank isn't charged, his actions lead to the family's eviction from the shelter. In their desperation, his wife resorts to calling her abusive ex for help, yet Justin refuses to join her, choosing to stay with Frank. This pivotal decision prompts his wife to reconsider her choices.
After finding another shelter at capacity, the family heads to Brooklyn via subway, trying once more to find refuge while playing a game they once enjoyed before homelessness took over their lives. As music plays, their uncertain future hangs in the balance, encapsulating the stark reality of a family battling the harshness of poverty, with the dream of a warm Christmas home slipping away.
