Message 34 of 1698

Friend In Need

I have a friend in her 70's in Port Angeles, Washington, who is going to be needing a very inexpensive place to live. Right now she is shivering in another friend's garage, but the house is going on the market and she will be homeless. She uses a breathing machine at night so she needs electricity. Her friend where she's been staying is in her 80's and will probably go into assisted living, so my dear friend won't have any where to turn. She doesn't feel she can travel far and hopes to stay in the Port Angeles area, otherwise I would try and talk her into coming and staying with me. She doesn't think she could take the summers here though (SE AZ). She's been on a list for public housing but there's still a lot of people ahead of her.
If anyone knows anyone who might be able to help this sweet soul, please private email me. Thanks a bunch.
SpiritSeeker's profile
This is a tough one. You could begin by calling the Salvation Army there in Port Angeles, and they might be able to make a suggestion or two.

Sometimes, on a slow news day, you can get the attention of local media such as the paper or the TV stations. Couldn't hurt, and they might put the information out there for others to see. If you're going this route, get your facts in order, then go over in your mind how you're going to make your pitch -- all kidding aside, this is a sales job and you have to go in prepared. Paint a sympathetic picture of your friend's plight, one the media types can relate to.

Oh, and call the media one by one, and see each through to a conclusion. Don't call them all at once, they hate that.

At the bottom of my list would be state agencies. For whatever reason, they can be decidedly unhelpful and you'll be spinning your wheels. On the other hand, if you know something I don't (and boy, have I been wrong before), then give them a ring.

Sorry I can't be of any real help. Wish it were otherwise.
Wurdguy's profile

about 1 month ago
Thanks for your suggestions Wurdguy. I've passed them on to her. I suggested it's like a job interview. She's still checking with various agancies. Hasn't come up with anything yet though.
SpiritSeeker's profile

29 days ago
Oh boy, I was just feeling really down and out, because my mom is so sick, and I've been holding more or less a vigil, making sure she gets enough fluids.

But I read this, and I think, at least my mother is in a clean home. At least she has me who gives her TLC and makes sure she gets enough to eat and drink. At least she has warmth, fresh sheets, and care.

This is terrible, SpirtiSeeker, that your friend is just about homeless. I live in Germany, and I got to say, they have some fantastic system here. You don't see homeless people lying on the streets or under bridges. If you do, it's becasue they want it that way. The social system is excellent. Everyone is taken care of medically and gets a roof over their head. I pray that Obama can pass his bill for socialzed medicine, and maybe the rest of the advantages will follow.

What a good friend you are to offer your home.
angelheart's profile

29 days ago
I live across the water from Port Angeles and know that our Senior Centers may be able to help someone with information on such things. Their info is at view link so maybe she could call and see if they have any suggestions for help.

Such a horrible situation to be in, I wish I were in a position to help.
finnkid's profile

28 days ago