No one needs to be told that 2020 was hard. We all know. Today, we turn the page towards 2021, and anchor our hopes, wishes, prayers, and intentions. Perhaps you are calling in peace, or joy, laughter, wellness, comfort, healing, or strength. Maybe you are calling in social justice, liberation, and hope. Maybe you're inviting rest, relief, and calmness. Whatever your needs are, together, let's breath in the new, and exhale the old. If you're reading this, we're so grateful you've made it through. We hold in our hearts that the same is not true for everyone.
It's not lost on us that YOU - this unwavering community - is with us, and committed to the task of ending homelessness together. Your actions speak loudly, and lay the groundwork to actualize a better future for everyone, housing and unhoused alike. You exceeded our expectations when we met our $200,000 end-of-year goal, and then you brought in an additional $47,000+ to meet our stretch goal, which supports even more services and sustainable care for our community. We see you and we are deeply humbled.
See for yourselves: give.classy.org/fh2020/
THANK YOU for showing up, time and time again. THANK YOU for wavering the storm. THANK YOU for leading with love. THANK YOU for believing there is a better way. THANK YOU for your gifts. THANK YOU for your hearts.
Facing Homelessness has a lot in store for this new year, and we're more committed than ever to the movement we are but one thread of; combatting complacency, calling in bystanders, seeing ourselves in the issues, uplifting beauty and hope, practicing vulnerability, sharing power, telling truths, receiving feedback, acknowledging our own mistakes, and showing up time and time again. Showing up for ourselves and others is what we're here to do. It is not easy, but it is worthy. We don't have to do it alone. Join us in this year as we come closer to one another where we feel more. We all know that when we feel more, we do more.
With deep gratitude,
The Facing Homelessness staff, board, and volunteers
IMAGINEif Someone Listened And Did Not Judge
IMAGINEif Someone Listened And Did Not Judge:
As we turn the calendar page to a new year, we can feel a palpable, collective sense of relief. But many of the challenges of 2020 will come with us into the new year, and not all of us will look at 2021 and see it as a fresh start. In fact, the number of people living outside in Seattle is growing.
If we all play our part, this community can and will rise to meet those challenges. We’ve done it before, so many times. Ten years ago, we were a Facebook page. Today, we’re a connected community that is actively building the world we want to live in.
This incredible community is stepping up more than ever. Over the holidays, we took the Window of Kindness to the streets and met unhoused people where they were to distribute sleeping bags, tents, and survival kits.
But it’s not just our staff that are stepping up. You, our incredible community, are stepping up too. You’re finding ways to use your resources and your compassion to shape the future of people living outside. We’ve seen a huge increase in donations of food and survival items to the Window of Kindness - items that can literally save lives during a cold, uncaring winter.
One of our volunteers knows how to sew. She used that skill to design sleeping bag liners with built-in pockets for hiding necessary items overnight. She refined the design based on feedback from people who needed to use them. Now, we’re distributing those liners at the Window of Kindness as quickly as she can make them.
Even if you can’t sew, or don’t have spare time to volunteer, there is still something you can do right now to be part of the solution. You can donate. Funding is the fuel for our engine of compassion and kindness. The more we have, the farther we can go.
https://give.classy.org/FH2020
Small acts of kindness matter on a bigger scale than we realize, and huge changes start with small steps forward. One donation, one smile, one hot meal, and one home at a time, we are creating a better world together. We are just about $5,000 shy of our stretch goal - help us meet it by midnight tonight and we’ll be another step closer.
With gratitude,
The Facing Homelessness staff, board and volunteers
IMAGINEif you were the solution
IMAGINEif You Were The Solution:
Behind every statistic is a real person. This community didn’t just house three people in BLOCK homes in 2020. We housed Abdul, Peter, and, as of today (!!) ReNee. Each of them has a story. Each has a different reason why they ended up living on the streets. Each now has a place to lay their head and a support system, and can live with dignity.
In 2021, the Facing Homelessness community will be able to help six more people transition off the streets and into a BLOCK home. Each of them will have a name. Each will have a beautiful story. Each will know comfort and safety because of the compassion and generosity of this extraordinary community.
https://give.classy.org/FH2020
Please donate by midnight to help us reach our stretch goal of $250,000. We're less than $11,000 away. The number of people living outside is growing right now, and we must be there to share love, compassion and resources with new people living on the streets. Are you with us?
With gratitude,
Facing Homelessness staff, board, and volunteers
IMAGINEif: we all turned belief into action
IMAGINEif we all turned belief into action:
Friends, belief is powerful. From the very beginning, everything Facing Homelessness does has been driven by our belief that we all have a part to play in ending the homeless crisis.
Our beliefs drive us to welcome people who’ve been isolated. Our beliefs guide us to look people in the eyes, listen to their stories, treat them with compassion, and provide the immediate resources of food, clothing, and kindness that they need. Our beliefs turn extra space in people's backyards into safe, warm homes for the unsheltered community members who surround our neighborhoods.
Belief can only take us so far. It has to be fueled by shared efforts and commitments that lie within each of us. Ultimately, it takes shared resources. This community and donors like you are the reason this work is possible - and the reason we’ve raised $129,000+ towards our $200,000 year-end fundraising goal.
https://give.classy.org/FH2020
We need to hit that goal! If you haven’t donated yet to IMAGINEif, our 2020 Year-End Campaign, please donate today. Share the campaign with those who trust and support you. We need you to believe in Facing Homelessness, and to turn that belief into action.
If you believe that where you live does not define who you are - donate now. If you believe we all live better when we feel loved - donate now. If you believe in second chances - donate now.
Together, we can end homelessness.
https://give.classy.org/FH2020
What you give now will be doubled by a generous matching donor. You will help shape the future of someone living outside, the future of our city, and the future of Facing Homelessness. Please, give what you can today.
With gratitude,
The Facing Homelessness staff, board and volunteers
IMAGINEif: everyone had what they needed to be OK
IMAGINEif everyone had what they needed to be OK:
Since the pandemic began, the Window of Kindness (WOK) has
remained open every single week. In that time, the number of visitors we support has nearly doubled, averaging thirty visitors per day. With cold weather and rain approaching, we’re anticipating increases. Our visitors have expressed enormous gratitude, sharing that organizations like ours across the city have shrunk or disappeared as non-profts work hard to adapt.
Because of YOUR support, we have adapted protocols, maintained dedicated volunteer support and kept the WOK open. The WOK is a survival service for our unsheltered community, providing tents, tarps, toiletries, food, eye contact, and more.
It is also a welcoming space of compassion without judgement. Here, anyone can sit by the window, tell their story, share their sorrows and celebrations, and receive the warmth of a caring, mindful individual who listens with love about the daily cycles of strengths, hopes, and sorrows. Karina Wallace, our Community Programs Manager, is shown in this photo, masked and always ready to support our clients every day the window is open.
https://give.classy.org/FH2020
This week we've raised $129,135 through our #IMAGINEif end of year campaign, and are well on our way to our $200,000 goal! In order to continue meeting the needs of this community, we're asking for your support. Can you pitch in? Donate whatever feels meaningful, whether it's $5 or $5000, and you are investing in relationship-based solutions. Remember, every dollar you give is matched!
THANK YOU,
Facing Homelessness staff, board, and volunteers
IMAGINEif: every one did what they could
IMAGINEif Everyone did what they could:
We want to live in a world where each of us can make a BIG impact on the injustices that surround us. This dream began with Just Say Hello and is now actualized for those who say "YES, in my backyard." Our wonderful host, Doh, recounts, “I have realized through hosting that it does not take anything from me to give more, and to expand my area of impact.” Like many others, Doh has stepped up in the simple yet profound act of sharing her underutilized backyard to host a BLOCK Home, built by volunteers and funded by community, where Abdul now lives as a neighbor and friend.
Right now, our neighbors like Abdul needs you. Our hosts like Doh need you. You’ve joined this community to come closer, to feel more, and to do more. When it comes to homelessness, it’s time to act. Your donation funds relationships, direct services, and a healthy HOME for someone in need. Where is your “YES” today?
https://give.classy.org/FH2020
Yesterday we launched a campaign to raise $200,000 by December 8th. We’re a quarter of the way there. Will you help us reach $65,000 today? Every single donation matters, whether it’s $5 or $5000. Doh inspires us by showing up as part of the solution. She told us part of her motivation was seated in the integrity of knowing deep down she could do more. “I wanted to be able to say I did what I could,” she told us, peering through her glasses with intent eyes as we sat in her backyard. Can you do just a little more today?
We know that each of you have chosen to be part of the solution. Join our hosts in saying “YES,” and support our IMAGINEif campaign right now.
https://give.classy.org/FH2020
THANK YOU,
Facing Homelessness Board, Staff, and Volunteers
IMAGINEif
IMAGINEif:
TOMORROW kicks off our END OF YEAR 8-DAY FUNDRAISER, beginning this #GivingTuesday! Together, we will IMAGINE a world without homelessness, and how essential YOU are to the vision. Together, we have the will to change, and the creativity to respond to the needs at hand. Right now, we need your support.
Shown in this photo is Abderrahim Aboulhouda (Abdul), who was previously homeless before moving into a beautiful home in the backyard of one of our hosts through #TheBLOCKProject.
At Facing Homelessness, we know it is possible to IMAGINE a future where things get better for people, because we see with our own eyes in the work we do, and how it transforms our participants, our staff, and our volunteers. Your support makes this possible.
Over these years, thousands of you have said YES to coming closer and feeling more - and through that proximity - DOING more. If you have been moved by the stories we have shared, seen our impact at the Window of Kindness, or participated in building a home for someone living homeless through The BLOCK Project, then please take this opportunity to support our work, which becomes more important every day this pandemic persists. Over the next eight days, we will be unveiling video and photo stories to help stretch our imaginations for a better future. Join us as we #IMAGINEif.
If you're feeling inspired to host your own fundraiser to support the campaign, let us know in the comments! If you SHARE this post, please write a statement about why this work matters to you (without it, algorithms render the shared post virtually invisible to your friends.) Stay tuned for more, and join our mailing list for sneak peeks into our new video stories. https://tinyurl.com/joinFH
THANK YOU,
Facing Homelessness staff, board, and volunteers
IMAGINEif
IMAGINEif:
One week from today, Facing Homelessness kicks off our End of Year Campaign, with a goal of raising $200,000. We need your help.
From #GivingTuesday (December 1st) to December 8th, we're going to ask you to come on a journey with us - a journey where we imagine how each one of us, in partnership, can work to end homelessness. We believe that we can build the world we want to live in - but we have to do it together, step by step.
Now more than ever, we must see ourselves in the suffering of others, and come together with a vision for workable solutions that make our community stronger, more equitable, and more loving. Stay tuned to learn how your donations and your efforts will bring us closer to facing homelessness together as a connected and compassionate community.
See you on December 1st!
With gratitude,
The Facing Homelessness staff, board and volunteers
jeanieMATTERS
PLEASE MEET JEANIE:
Jeanie spoke frantically from her car. My attempts to calm her only increased her frustration. Maybe it was my hokey optimism. Like telling her she matters. She gave me the occasional stink-eye, indicating that I didn’t get it. Then she ripped loose her head bandanna mid-sentence. Her sudden wide eyes popped from her bald head and messed up my trip. Fat tears followed. “This cancer never goes away, right? You can take a lot from a woman. But don’t take her hair. A woman’s hair is who she is…”
Remember Jeanie? Rex introduced her here a year ago. She had recently lost her mother. Mourning her loss while adjusting to homelessness, she lived in a U-Haul where she was mugged and beaten by thugs. Her belongings were dumped on the street and the vehicle re-possessed.
This community responded. Jeanie was grateful. But we recently discovered Jeanie again, living in her car. Now Jeanie is sick with ovarian cancer. She has been through chemotherapy and receives daily radiation treatments. We found shelter for Jeanie in a tiny house. But she drives long distances daily in a vehicle with a failing transmission to receive her treatments.
Though sick, Jeanie speaks with animation and purpose. Her story is a carnival ride of anxiety and joy. Rapid accelerations. Sadness juxtaposed against self-deprecation and dry humor. Spiritual moments, abruptly followed by shocking revelations and salty language. Your emotions can’t respond fast enough to transition correctly before the story takes another tight turn. Tears and laughter flow simultaneously as her busy face and big eyes span a spectrum of emotions. A few of her anecdotes cannot be repeated in this family forum, but left my guts hurting from laughter. Jeanie is a kick in the ass.
She won’t talk your ear off. Jeanie lets you off the ride easy each time with a whisper, “I love you Sweetie.” And we’re left with plenty to think about.
Outside a sick woman with a tragic story wears a bandanna and a shirt that says Only God can Judge. Inside, there’s Jeanie. She’s lonely these days. Needing help but employing every tool in her power to help herself. A woman who should matter. Though the world may have forgotten somehow.
Below is a list of Jeanie’s needs. In addition, we’d like to raise $1500 for gas cards for Jeanie. If you can help, click here: https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=YW973AHMPB5EC
Items may be shipped to: Facing Homelessness c/o Jeanie 4001 9th Ave NE. Funds are used by Facing Homelessness to procure this ask. No funds will go directly to Jeannie and no funds go to Facing Homelessness. If there are funds remaining, they will go to another person who is in need.
Stand Up Walker
Electric Blanket- full size
Boulder Creek Fleece Winter Coat size 5X, Navy Blue or Black
Explorer Plush Fleece Pants, 2 pair, size 5X
Long Sleeve Thermal Long Johns
Cargo Pants- Knock Around Kind size 5X
Sneakers- Lace Up Downforce, size 10 womens
Copper Fit Energy Compression Socks, black, 2 pair
Kent Neighborhood| Damian
A QUIET THOUGHT - If you’re moved by the goodness of this community, please visit http://www.facinghomelessness.org/ and click on the ‘donate’ button and consider a “monthly recurring” donation of just $5 in support of the work. Thank you.
#Kindness #FacingHomelessness #JustSayHello
disruptingISOLATION
DISRUPTING ISOLATION, FOR ALL OF US:
Disrupting Isolation: For All of Us - https://mailchi.mp/.../community-built-realizing-a-dream...
Have you experienced isolation this year? Us too. COVID-19 has disrupted the social fabric + physical proximity we took for granted, and forced us to confront isolation in many areas of our lives.
It’s important for us to center these reflections in relationship to the people we serve. These difficult experiences of separation, loneliness, and distance from love and connection are the things our houseless neighbors navigate every single day.
stillHERE
STILL HERE:
STILL HERE. One 24-hour period in our country will, for some, change everything. At the Window of Kindness, and in our BLOCK Home workshop, however, little will change. We're still here. Our community is still here. You're still here!! And those who need the warmth of compassion, heartfelt listening, and care are still here.
In this year of COVID-19, a crucial race and equity reckoning, and a national election, our conversations and dedicated intention to serving those who arrive at our doorsteps is UNchanged. Our commitment to holding our story-filled companions GENTLY and with care is unchanged. Tomorrow will be as yesterday was, and our mission and role will remain the same: To invite community into the work of ending homelessness. THANK YOU for holding this vision and work in your hearts and for each time you've decided to walk together with us along this path.
FEARLESSLeader
PLEASE MEET SUE:
We are beyond excited to announce that Facing Homelessness has hired an Interim Executive Director! Please help us welcome Sue Rooney to the Facing Homelessness staff! Sue will be guiding FH through the next 6 months as we frame the next phases of priorities and leadership for our growing organization, and we couldn’t be happier to introduce her to you, our amazing community!
Sue is a passionate advocate for tangible solutions to homelessness that recognize our shared humanity. She’s also a familiar face—having served on the Facing Homelessness board of directors for the past four years and making her someone ready to hit the ground running. Sue has held various leadership roles in the nonprofit and private industries, and has stewarded organizations through growth phases and transitions, including leading a nonprofit through a four-fold increase in programs and funding during the Great Recession. We’re grateful to have her.
In her own words:
"The work of Facing Homelessness, indeed every aspect of what Rex Hohlbein, Jennifer LaFreniere,
and Sara Vander Zanden have developed over the past five to ten years, is not only crucial for our homeless community--it also resonates for me personally. My life story includes many experiences that could have resulted in serious housing insecurity. What I had that too many of our homeless neighbors do not was a committed community of people who offered me somewhere safe to live for no cost. And free child care. And encouragement. And employment. With these tangible provisions my life quickly turned around. At Facing Homelessness, we recognize that those living housed have the capacity and the compassion to step in without judgement. They can look directly into the eyes of those whose resources and capacities have dried up, and say, “I see you. I care. Let me help you.” Our staff, volunteers, partners, community supporters (YOU), and love itself, take it from there.“
We’ve been quieter than usual during this year of challenge, but behind the scenes we’ve been active, adapting to the changing landscape of COVID-19. The Window of Kindness hasn’t missed a day providing support to our most vulnerable neighbors. The BLOCK Project continues to create permanent homes and personal connections in residential backyards throughout the city. You will be hearing more from us in the coming months. Please know that even amid moments of silence, we are still very active and grateful everyday for all of YOU and the love and compassion you give to our unhoused neighbors.
With love,
Facing Homelessness Staff and Board
A QUIET THOUGHT - If you’re moved by the goodness of this community, please visit http://www.facinghomelessness.org/ and click on the ‘donate’ button and consider a “monthly recurring” donation of just $5 in support of the work. THANK YOU!
#facinghomelessness #justsayhello #kindness #yesinmybackyard #theblockprojectThe
alternateFORTUNES
PLEASE MEET HALEY AND MARK:
Rumbling freeway ramps wind above the dirty Seattle thoroughfare. Motorists pass in all directions. Flowing in steady streamlines as the city breathes. A man sits on the curb. His static wiry figure contrasts with the rhythm. His head between his knees, he flicks an expired butt and spits at the pavement cursing his luck. A woman sleeps in the gravel. A dated floral table cloth is her blanket. A bible is her pillow.
Nearby, Mark and Haley share a small tent near an overflowing dumpster. Mark is an unemployed chef. He’s worked in prestigious restaurants and trained under Richard Nixon’s personal chef. He escorts Haley gently from the tent, holding her hand. He speaks of their journey. Ever conscious of her presence, his respect for her runs deep. She speaks softly in the background. Randomly. Out of sequence and context. Mark acknowledges her along the way. Thoughtfully encouraging her participation while respectfully metering her inputs with gentle nods and eye contact. All without breaking dialogue. He speaks of their struggles. Their ongoing recovery from heroin, his love for Haley. Her mental illness, and the constant attention she needs to stay safe. Rioting crows steal rotting garbage from the dumpster.
Mark pauses, “Your turn Babe.” But Haley’s voice was weak behind the whine of bus engines and the thunder of passing freight trains. Listening hard, I envisioned darkness. Her confinement in a psychiatric ward. Her father, who abused her as a child. I saw the grim faces of her two children whom she loves, but sadly accepts must be apart from her for now. “I’ll have to leave my body before all this is over,” she said. She spoke of her love for Mark. I could discern no more.
Mark explained that Haley hears voices. She is schizophrenic and exhibits multiple personalities. “She simply cannot be left alone,” he explains. “The women pick on her at the shelters. Men abuse her on the streets. She cannot take care of herself. When we met four years ago, I was struck by her braids. Her tanned skin and tattoos. Her soft voice and smile. My feelings haven’t changed. And though I am unable to care for her and work, Haley is my priority. She is worth more than money.”
Back at the dumpster a stumbling man urinates in the shadows, unfazed by the rat snooping near his bare feet. There’s a dead cat. The stink of diesel exhaust mingles with smoke from a nearby garbage can fire. A shouting match ensues from the tent next door. Then silence. Mark looks at Haley, then at the ground. “I need to get her out of here,” he said softly.
SODO Neighborhood | Damian
A QUIET THOUGHT - If you’re moved by the goodness of this community, please visit http://www.facinghomelessness.org/ and click on the ‘donate’ button and consider a “monthly recurring” donation of just $5 in support of the work. THANK YOU!
#facinghomelessness #justsayhello #kindness #yesinmybackyard #theblockproject
deconflictingSADNESS
PLEASE MEET BRIANNA:
The glossy photo of Bri I’d promised her sits on the passenger seat. Still awaiting our next chance encounter. She’d asked Debbie to sew her a Hello Kitty mask. It sits on the banister with a post-it attached bearing her name and a small heart. Bri would never receive the mask or photo.
Our friendship with Bri was a journey. A trail steadily gaining elevation, but ending unexpectedly at a precipice. This thought, juxtaposed against the sudden and sheer finality of her death, was sad and conflicting. We were just getting somewhere.
We met Bri a few years back. She lived in a shack of plywood and tarps in the Jungle. It had a wood stove. There was a plastic Santa and a pair of glossy high heels in the mud near the plank walkway outside. In the winter white smoke puffed from the stack. It meant Bri was home.
Bri ran deep but surfaced periodically. Maybe humor and sarcasm disguised deeper issues. I gave her a ride to the store once. When she returned to the car I asked if she got me anything. She said yes. She reached in the bag and handed me a box of tampons.
Bri would lead our conversations, often away from herself or difficult topics. Like the reasons for her homelessness. Or her difficult relationship with her father. I would learn that she valued these encounters more than I knew. But I would never learn the deeper reasons for her homelessness. Or why she lived in surroundings littered with addiction and trash. Crushed human spirits. Mud and rats. Like many living unsheltered, it didn’t make much sense. Perhaps her pride got in the way of discussing these things. Or maybe she didn’t want to drag me down with her problems. Who knows. I guess homelessness and logic are poor bedfellows. So I don’t know why Bri had to die homeless.
At our last visit Bri admitted she was having a rough day. I sensed sadness. Our conversation was notably more real. But when I left, she was happier. That evening I received a text that would be our final communication: “Today my spirit was re-energized. After our visits I always feel stronger. Visible, valuable, viable. Thank you. I wish you knew how it feels to be on the receiving end of our friendship. Love you and appreciate you. -Bri”
Bri’s father is dealing with his own struggles while coping with this loss. We would like to show him that Bri was important and loved by raising $2400 to help with funeral expenses.
https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick...
Funds are used by Facing Homelessness to procure this ask. No funds will go directly to Bri’s family and no funds go to Facing Homelessness. If there are funds remaining, they will go to another person who is in need.
Yesler Terrace Neighborhood | Damian
A QUIET THOUGHT - If you’re moved by the goodness of this community, please visit http://www.facinghomelessness.org/ and click on the ‘donate’ button and consider a “monthly recurring” donation of just $5 in support of the work. THANK YOU!
#Kindness #FacingHomelessness #JustSayHello
manyVOICES
PLEASE MEET DAMIAN:
I want to introduce a longtime friend of Facing Homelessness and a key contributor to this page. Damian Monda grew up in the region, and at a very young age was inspired by his grandfather Joe who lived in Wenatchee. Joe owned a little grocery store, was very active in St. Vincent de Paul and had relationships with many people experiencing homelessness. During his childhood on Beacon Hill, Damian and his brother would explore the abandoned neighborhoods surrounding I-5 construction. This was the 60s. They made friends with the people taking refuge in the boarded-up homes. “We grew up building tree-houses down in that area. Even after we moved, I would return year after year. I never really stopped going down into the Jungle.” Around that young age, Damian began what would become a life-long journey of bringing food and basic essentials to the folks living there, offering his time and friendship.
Damian, and now his wife Debbie, still spend a lot of time doing that. They share the belief that these simple acts are of paramount importance, that living in service of others enriches both their lives and those that they encounter. “The greatest gift you can give is just your time, some respect, and to treat people with dignity.” When I asked how he discovered the importance of this, Damian recalled early days working in Georgetown when he would sometimes walk past, or step over, someone sleeping outside his office. “I would get to my desk and realize, I’ve already missed the most important opportunity of this whole day.” He shared that loving others isn’t complicated. “It’s easy. They’re right there. You don’t have to overthink it. The opportunity to serve others is right in our face.”
Our founder, Rex Hohlbein, crossed paths with Damian in 2016 doing similar work: sharing photos, dispelling myths, and meeting the needs of our unsheltered neighbors. “There was one week where I’d go out to meet someone [living outside,] and Rex would have just been there the same day or the other way around. Finally, we said, “We’ve got to meet.” They did. “We met down in Georgetown outside Zoe’s bus. That was about three years ago.” We are so grateful for the important work Damian does in our community and look forward to more of his contributions on this page.
Facing Homelessness is in a season of growth. You’ve likely noticed this page being more quiet than usual, and we have missed connecting with all of you regularly. In addition to Rex’s departure, COVID-19 has presented challenges to our work of coming closer. Facing Homelessness is also taking this opportunity to examine how we share stories in the most ethical manner that protects and honors the people we are lifting up. We’re excited to grow in the direction of having all our programs more informed by those we serve.
Damian and other staff members will be sharing more stories about our work. This page may look a little different moving forward and that simply reflects the times we are in. Please reach out with any comments/feelings/suggestions. We look forward to seeing you here and continuing our work together! You can also follow our Instagram profile and sign up for our newsletter on our website for regular program updates and events.
With Love and Gratitude,
Barron l Beacon Hill Neighborhood
Barron is an architect, photographer and the Communications Manager at Facing Homelessness
A QUIET THOUGHT - If you’re moved by the goodness of this community, please visit http://www.facinghomelessness.org/ and click on the ‘donate’ button and consider a “monthly recurring” donation of just $5 in support of the work. THANK YOU!
#Kindness #FacingHomelessness #JustSayHello #YesInMyBackyard #theBLOCKproject
separatePEACE
PLEASE MEET PAIGE:
In the back of my mind I was afraid it was true. It had been a while since I sat with Paige. At the dialysis center. Bright eyes and colors. Metal jewelry. Relentlessly positive. Non-stop and not withstanding grim circumstances. Accentuating absurdities. Mercilessly poking at human nuances. Laughing. At herself and others. Laughing at me. Talking too much. Same ol’ Paige. But weaker now. Her legs and face swollen. She stood shakily after her three hour treatment. Her only regret, “Today is James’ birthday. I couldn’t be there to celebrate with him.”
Much had changed since I posted Paige’s story here a year ago. The wildFLOWER. It spoke to her chronic positivity. Her sarcasm and cheerfulness. Her affection for people and motorcycles. And the way I felt when visiting her camp in the Jungle. A treehouse of timbers and tarps. A separate and peaceful place. Adjacent to, but separated by lightyears from bustling Seattle. There was a calming effect. Even the wildlife understood. Birds sang in the trees and squirrels played in tangled vines. Her cats lounged on a small porch. I felt good there.
In those days Paige played the banjo. She sought a musical partner. But only weeks later she suffered a seizure. Hospitalized for days, she returned with no memory of what happened, or even how she got home. Her memory and cognitive processes would never function correctly again, making it difficult to follow her prescribed methadone routine. A subsequent diagnosis of kidney failure would require dialysis three times a week. Her bouts with confusion and now irregular methadone schedule led to anxiety. Deep frustration and hopelessness. Her ability to stay disciplined with her dialysis treatment waned. All this on top of a devastating heroin addiction and homelessness.
Having had bad experiences trusting street rumors, I called James. In seconds I learned what I already knew. James broke down and convulsed in sorrow. He sobbed, “I’m completely broken. She was my everything. I miss her so f*cking much.” The back of my mind took center stage like a scared kid. Paige was gone.
Paige suffered much in her short life, especially in her final days. But the sicknesses that ravaged Paige’s body could not touch her soul. She spoke no ill. She kept no score. Her eyes stayed loving and bright. Her smile as genuine as her love for life, which life itself did not deserve.
I am grateful for each moment I spent with Paige. Talking at her camp. Sitting in medical offices. Riding to the methadone clinic. Always joyful and full of surprises. A wiseass. A badass. A rose among thorns. A Wild Flower. Rest in eternal peace Paige.
Beacon Hill Neighborhood | Damian
A QUIET THOUGHT - If you're moved by the goodness of this community, please visit http://www.facinghomelessness.org/ and click on the 'donate' button and consider a "monthly recurring" donation of just $5 in support of the work. THANK YOU!
#Kindness #FacingHomelessness #JustSayHello
beautifulSEATTLE
PLEASE MEET DANNY:
I've heard yelled in meeting halls, "Seattle should be called Free-attle". It's easy to hold onto, catchy and clever. Our inner voice can say, "Yeah, why are we just giving people stuff, I've worked hard for mine."
To begin with, let's be clear, the only stuff that is important in life is the basic-needs-stuff. The rest of stuff is just stuff. Why are we so freaked out about giving it away? Why are we still making stuff more important than people?
The stuff people on our streets need is the basic-needs-stuff. It's that simple. Nobody should be in need of basic-needs-stuff. Nobody. If you don't feel the same, come closer to those struggling, you will feel differently.
Danny lives homeless in a truck. He's become a beautiful friend for me over the last 5 years. There has been a great deal of pain in his lifetime, I've seen just a small part of it.
I told Danny I was leaving FH on July 1st, that I wanted to make my last post about him. When we first met, July 8, 2015, he was cooking bacon, hash-browns, and blueberry pancakes on a grill next to his RV. I was biking past on the Burke Gilman Trail. I said hello and he invited me to breakfast!
So here is the thing, there is only one Danny. But there are two views of him. One that society sees from arm's-length, which includes a broken down RV (not anymore with his Nissan Pathfinder), a good deal of pot smoked, no job, a stressed relationship with the police, and more. Basically the negative stereotype against homelessness.
The other view, the up-close and personal view, is radically different. It moves from seeing the 'issue' of homelessness to seeing the person. It answers to the negative of the arm's-length view. This up-close view sees the sensitive and beautiful person that Danny is. He has lived in RV's because he has had two big dogs which makes it nearly impossible to find housing. They are his best friends. One recently sadly passed, which has been horrible for Danny. He smokes pot because it calms him, it allows him to function through the anxiety. He served in the military and suffers PTSD, which shows up when dealing with authority figures like the police.
For every negative that you might find and feel about Danny, or anyone else living on the street, know that your opinion is informed by the arm's-length view. If you come closer, to see the human being, to hear about their journey, your opinion will change. You will get to see the person.
Danny shared how emotionally difficult the past few years have been for him. That only a few friends have stuck it out with him when he was all over the place emotionally. That he appreciated I hung in there with him. I began to stream tears.
It's me that is so very grateful for Danny's friendship. This is the power of coming closer, of Just Saying Hello.
Danny was able to purchase a Nissan Pathfinder and needs help with registration costs, tabs, and some gas. Hoping we can raise $400.00 for him.
UPDATE: Paypal link has been removed in that our goal of raising $400 has been reached with $483.60 donated!!! WowWOW!!!!! We know this is going to greatly help Danny move forward. A HEARTFELT thanks to everyone!!!
No funds will go directly to Danny, no funds go to Facing Homelessness, as is always the case, and if there are funds remaining, they will go to someone with a like need. Thanks SO very much!!!
Georgetown Neighborhood | Rex
A QUIET THOUGHT - If you're moved by the goodness of this community, please visit http://www.facinghomelessness.org/
and click on the 'donate' button and consider a "monthly recurring" donation of just $5 in support of the work. THANK YOU!
#Kindness #JustSayHello #FacingHomelessness Crosscut KING 5
beautifulTOGETHER
PLEASE MEET LACEY & BILLY:
Lacey is 27 and Billy 29 years old. They are both homeless, Lacey for the last 3 years, Billy for 15 years. They are there for each other, it's easy to feel their connection.
As they stood telling me about the details of their lives, the twists and turns, the ups and downs, I saw them come closer to each other. When Billy shared how he ran away from Foster Care at the age of 14, Lacey took his hand. As Lacey shared about CPS taking her son and daughter, Billy held her tight.
I told them they were beautiful together and Lacey instantly smiled big and then teared up. Billy held her tighter.
I can't imagine the life they are living. I just can't imagine.
We would like to get Lacey and Billy a hotel room for two nights, just a break from the craziness. If (10) people donate $20, we can make it happen. Let's do this. Please.
UPDATE: The Paypal link has been pulled in that the goal of raising $200 has been reached with $491.88 raised, wowWOW!! No funds go to Lacey&Billy, and is always the case, no funds go to FH. If funds are left over, they will go to someone with a like need. A heartfelt THANKS!!!
A big and beautiful LOVE to you Lacey and Billy!!
Downtown Seattle Neighborhood | Rex
A QUIET THOUGHT - If you're moved by the goodness of this community, please visit http://www.facinghomelessness.org/
and click on the 'donate' button and consider a "monthly recurring" donation of just $5 in support of the work. THANK YOU!
#JustSayHello #Kindness #FacingHomelessness Crosscut KING 5
easilyMISSED
PLEASE MEET BRIAN:
You've paid for parking. Two hours time. It should be enough to drop books off at the library, grab coffee at your favorite coffee shop, and then head to the park to sit, relax and catch up on social media. Along the way you pass a man sitting on the curb next to his truck, which is also his home. You didn't see him, but he was there.
You don't know it, but this man is a beautiful person. Yes he's fallen on tough times, but he's gentle and caring. He doesn't have much, but he's into helping others, sharing his time.
He could be anyone, but his name is Brian. He's 64 years old, grew up in Butte, Montana working the mines. He loves heights and depths, the deeper the better, he was made for mining. Not anymore though. Too old, too many injuries.
The truck he lives in was given to him by Brother Isaac at St. Luke's. A gift to his friend just before passing away. They had come to enjoy each other's company, taking care of the grounds. The truck had been sitting for a long time, because of it the tires and battery are shot.
We would like to raise $1,000 for Brian to get (4) new tires and batteries, the truck takes two. It would mean the world to him. He wants to use the vehicle to help move belongings to storage for friends living on the street. He's just that kind of guy.
I know social media is important. Heck, Facing Homelessness has 53K people on this page reaching out with kindness. But maybe, just maybe next time you are out and about, look for that person sitting alone, having a tough time of it. I promise your life will shift if you stop and Just Say Hello. The human experience of it all will be infinitely more real and beautiful than anything you'll find on your phone.
A community size LOVE to you Brian. Thanks so much for sharing about your life, especially all the interesting stuff about mining. As soon as this Covid virus is under control I'm going to take you up on your offer of heading to the mountains to pan for gold. I got a good feeling about it!!!
Ballard Neighborhood | Rex
A QUIET THOUGHT - If you're moved by the goodness of this community, please visit http://www.facinghomelessness.org/
and click on the 'donate' button and consider a "monthly recurring" donation of just $5 in support of the work. THANK YOU!
#JustSayHello #Kindness #FacingHomelessness Crosscut KING 5 The Bridge Care Center Linda Soriano
deepGRATITUDE
PLEASE MEET CHIAKA:
Ten years ago I met this man. His name is Chiaka. He's a prolific genius artist. He forever changed my life.
While his artful way impacted me greatly, what mattered most was the friendship he openly invited me into. He shared his journey of homelessness, both his struggles and successes. He trusted me to see him, to know him, exactly as he is. Nothing more, nothing less.
What I discovered over these last ten years, beginning and running this page, is that Chiaka's invitation to come closer, is not unique. Every one of us, living inside or out, at some level, wants to be seen as we are. Nothing more, nothing less.
This is what we owe each other. To break down the barriers of separation and 'Just Say Hello'. To come closer and see for ourselves the person standing in front of us. To not judge. To not control. To just be and feel and love.
Facing Homelessness is asking of all of us to journey creating relationships as a means for building healthy community. And what is beautiful about that, is that healthy community does not accept homelessness.
With overflowing emotions, I want to share that on July 1st I am stepping down at Facing Homelessness. It would be impossible to convey how important these last ten years have been for me, getting to come closer with all of you.
The decision to leave is similar to the reason for why I began. And that is, because my heart tells me it is time.
Facing Homelessness is in this beautiful place of having transformed itself into a vibrant advocate for those in need. It is supported by many thousands of people all putting LOVE first as the foundation for ending homelessness. That is no small thing, in fact, it is a bigBIG THING!!
Its programs of 'Just Say Hello', 'Window of Kindness', 'Community CleanUPs', and the 'BLOCK Project' are thriving with a dedicated staff, board, and community to go with!
I look forward to all the beautiful future conversations I get to have, now as a volunteer!!! A heartfelt THANK YOU to every single person that opened their heart on this collective journey.
At Facing Homelessness we often say, 'Our personal journey defines the direction of this org, not the other way around.' This includes all of you. We are all in this together!
Feeling so much LOVE.
Seattle neighborhoods | Rex