We are thankful this week to have the opportunity to share the personal story of one of our past Camp Unity residents… Brian.
Brian was injured at work and became disabled. Then life got worse – he and his wife divorced, he lost his job and home, and depression set in. He lived on the street for seven years, trying to sleep on park benches or in his car. It was an exhausting situation that made it very difficult for him to take steps to move forward.
Then he spoke with Al, a Camp Unity Board Member. Al told him you can’t get up and function the next day if you are trying to sleep on a bench. He shared with Brian what Camp Unity offers for people in need.
Brian went to Camp Unity in 2017 and it was life changing. He had a tent where he could rest and safely store his belongings. He could take a hot shower, wash and dry his clothes, and get a hot meal.
Staying at Camp Unity gave Brian the opportunity to recharge and take the next steps. He applied for a housing voucher, followed up persistently with case workers at the Department of Social and Health Services and Catholic Community Services for help in finding a place to live. This past March, Brian moved into an apartment in Redmond.
People like Brian are the reason Camp Unity Eastside exists! We are grateful to him for sharing his story and appreciate all of the volunteers and donors who help to make Camp Unity a reality for people who need an opportunity to get back on their feet.