“I was homeless in Walla Walla, WA for 17 years. During this time I received help from Hope Heals, and I was very grateful for them helping me through some very hard times of my life. I used the warming center during the really hard cold nights and again Hope Heals was there offering dry clothes, boots, hats, and even warm dry socks to keep my feet warm. I have been receiving help from Hope Heals for the past 8 years. 3 years ago, they even helped me with my paperwork to get into housing at 5 am because I didn’t have a phone, and they knew where I would be at 5 am getting coffee, a warm place to be. Then one day I was having a conversation with Hope Heals, and they offered me a job when they get into their dream building. I am going to help them in the Warehouse. After we had this conversation within 2 weeks, I contacted them letting them know that I was ready to be housed. Hope Heals gave me HOPE, and I knew I would be ok. Shortly after this, I got a phone call from Hope Heals letting me know that there was an apartment coming open right where I wanted to be. It’s been 3 years now, and I’m still in my apartment and I’m doing good. I am so blessed to have Hope Heals in my life because they care about each person as an individual and not like a number. I still have contact with them and help them once in a while, and volunteer to help other people who move into my building with their care package. Thank you to Hope Heals, as I believe they helped save my life. Spreading Hope is the way to go.” ~ Ex-homeless community member