Philip's Story | Stronger Together
Last updated: December 4, 2024, at 2:32 p.m. PT
Originally published: November 17, 2018, at 1:11 p.m. PT
Philip's dad was arrested for drunk driving when picking him up from school. Philip escaped an unsafe home life, but bounced from foster care and other homes until he turned 18. As a young adult, he found himself with very few resources, getting sick from lack of food and proper care. He resorted to selling his cellphone, clothes, and pan-handling just to get by. Philip wanted more. He used his ingenuity and the kindness of strangers to get to YAIT, the Y's transitional housing facility in downtown Seattle. Philip found a stable place to lay his head.
"I think I would have a lot harder time accomplishing the things I wanted to without the Y. I would not be as far ahead as I am now. This is probably the most amazing place you can live."
Philip has been grateful to have his own space to focus on the future. He talks with a counselor supplied by the Y, and was able to secure a job - even a promotion. Philip is now enrolled in an entrepreneurship program through the Y to learn the fundamentals of marketing.
This is the work that the Y does! Each night, the Y’s Social Impact Center houses 450 youth and young adults who would otherwise be living on the streets. We provide wrap around services including behavioral health, employment training and so much more. In fact, the Y is the largest provider of housing for youth and young adults experiencing homelessness in King County.
Philip is one of the lucky young people. He was connected to the Y and was off the streets in a short amount of time. Will you help others like Philip by supporting the Y’s Social Impact Center?