When you support Camp Unity you make a big difference for people like Chris. Chris grew up on the Eastside in Woodinville. Drug use impacted his ability to keep his apartment and led to him leaving in 2007 to avoid eviction. He was homeless and for several years, Chris stayed at various tent cities in King County.
In 2013 he learned about Camp Unity Eastside from an acquaintance and it made a big difference. At Camp Unity he felt a sense of community with other people at the camp and also with volunteers who came by with meals, supplies or just to visit. Chris also felt secure at Camp Unity – he could leave belongings in his tent and have confidence that they would be there when he returned. He had easy access to a washer and dryer and no longer had to go to a laundromat. He could shower at the camp rather than the YMCA.
For many years, Chris sought a federal housing voucher because otherwise he could not afford an apartment. He called regularly to ensure his name stayed on the list and also sought support from social service and medical providers. In March 2019, he learned from the Seattle Housing Authority that his name came up on the list and he would receive a voucher. He looked for a place and moved into an apartment in Seattle in July 2019. In reflecting on his time at Camp Unity, Chris described that it changed his life, including providing an impetus to be free of drugs.
Your gift today is key to helping people like Chris who need a safe place to stay and reestablish a path forward. Last year, 11 people moved from Camp Unity to housing.
Please donate today to provide safe shelter for people in need. Any amount helps! Your gift helps provide a safe place and a better future for people who are without homes.