HUMANITY OF HOMELESSNESS

It started in 2023 when Gabriel went to the store the day before Christmas Eve. He fell and tore his rotator cuff, and couldn't work.  I (Misty) was off of work due to health issues.  We couldn't make our rent payments and tried to get help,  but we lost our apartment in August of 2024.  

We lived in our Jeep, and sometimes stayed with some friends. My health was getting worse and caused me to have to be in the hospital. Gabriel was working off and on but his arm prevented him from being able to continue doing so. I started to work in February 2024 but kept calling in sick due to illness.

We called Church at the Park and got on the list. In December we got the call for an intake.  That was amazing!! We were out of the weather and off the streets.  The people there were so nice and helpful, understanding.  The staff, our case manager and peer supports helped Gabriel and myself with our goals. And helped find us an amazing apartment.  It felt like we were family. They helped get us settled into our new place and started on our new journey. There are no  words for how grateful we are. Church at the park has been a blessing. We love every one of you.  

Thank you so much.

Here’s what two of our staff had to say about Misty and Gabriel:

Misty and Gabriel came to VOH this last December and were only here a short time before they and their kitty found the perfect place to call home.

They have been an absolute delight to get to know and have a way of making everyone around them feel joy. You can always expect the biggest smiles and warmest greetings from them both! Though I will miss them greatly, I am very excited for their new chapter in life and they deserve every bit of what they've worked so hard for. Congratulations to them both! - Ivy, Case Manager

Being able to support Misty and Gabriel during their stay with Church at the Park was a blessing. They were always so kind and grateful for everything and wonderful people to get to know. Misty was always on top of everything and well organized and Gabriel never hesitated to reach out whenever there was any support needed. - Renata, Peer Support

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