Hello Margaret,
Thank you for participating in Giving Tuesday.
I’m writing to ask for your help as we assist our homeless neighbors.
Homelessness is the most serious crisis facing Seattle. Adding to the challenge, the changing political climate could further damage a social safety net that is already fraying. We are seeking your support to preserve programs that have helped hundreds of seniors out of homelessness.
I wish I could share the stories of the thousands of low-income and homeless clients who visit us for free meals, free groceries, social work counseling, and a safe place to gather. Since I can’t introduce you to everyone, I would like you to meet Terry.
Like 1,300 other people at PMSC-FB, Terry is homeless. He is a lifelong Seattle resident who worked for years as a printer and book-maker. “I brought old books back into print - really old books, like from the 1700s! It was fascinating work.” Curious and spiritual, Terry has been homeless on-and-off since he entered the foster care system at age 14.
 
Now in his sixties, Terry visits us every day. “This place is a refuge,” he says of the Senior Center. “When you don’t have money, it’s hard to find a place to just be. But here, I find good meals and I get to be involved in things. I take classes on history and geography and I’m working with Danielle, looking for housing.” Danielle is Terry’s social worker. “In the last few years, I stopped drinking and I switched from sleeping outside to sleeping in a shelter. An apartment is the next step for me.”
“Danielle knows her stuff,” says Terry. “She’s a caring person. We’re working on a few good leads, but the best case scenario is still six months until a place is available. The wait isn’t easy. But I’m looking forward to some privacy… some security. I’m really excited for a place to play my music again.”
In the last year, Danielle and our other social workers helped 37 homeless seniors find affordable housing, some after decades on the streets. “Terry’s had a hard time for a long time,” says Danielle. “There’s still a ways to go but we aren’t giving up. We don’t give up on people here.”
Nutrition is important to Terry: “I try to eat as healthy as I can. I have a strong idea of what I should be eating and the food I find here is good. Hey, I’m 61 and I feel great. I mean... usually!” 
Terry’s positive attitude and the resilience of all our clients inspire our staff to keep working hard. I’m asking you to offer hope to the hundreds of men and women facing similar challenges. Your donation this holiday season provides assistance all year long:
- Free, nutritious breakfast and lunch served every day of the week
- Access to one-on-one social work counseling to help homeless seniors find housing
- Healthy activities for the mind and body
- Free groceries at the Pike Market Food Bank
With your support, Terry and people like him can continue to visit the Pike Market Senior Center & Food Bank to find services that have changed countless lives for the better since we opened our doors in 1978. Best regards and happy holidays!
Jeannie Falls, Executive Director
Pike Market Senior Center & Food Bank
PS - 2017 will be a big year at the Market. If you visit the new MarketFront, I hope you’ll come by the Pike Market Senior Center & Food Bank to see your gift in action!
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