In His Words: Derek

When I started looking for housing in the King County area, I fell into what felt like a circular process of bouncing from one housing program to another through different organizations.

When I was homeless, I was staying in shelters or living in my car. However, the YMCA has done so much to help me exit homelessness.

"The staff there were really understanding of my situation and they offered a genuine ear and kind words to me whenever I visited."

The Transitional Housing program helped me focus on my housing goals. I met with a case manager and resident manager on a regular basis, so I was able to stay on track toward my goal of moving into my own apartment. Not only that, but the housing program helped me prepare for the job that I currently have.

Another major lifeline that was accessible to me was the support of the drop-in center staff at the 2100 Building. The staff there were really understanding of my situation and they offered a genuine ear and kind words to me whenever I visited.

I would definitely recommend the housing programs to anyone who is ready to find permanent housing and ready to work toward their own financial, educational, or employment success.