By Julie Loomis
I slowly walk with my walker, pushing myself on through the garbage-scattered streets. The heat evaporates the urine stench, and I hear a few hellos or grunts of greetings. This is part of my life. Yet when I open the door of the Phoenix, peaceful energy surrounds me as I step into the cool interior. Here are my friends from Project Well-Being, the mental health program, as we get ready to start our day.
I have two worlds in one. Outside the walls are street people, some from the shelter and the rest from around. Most look tired, desperate, or are smiling. Many cultures and many different stories. We are all homeless, taking one step at a time to get to our next phase. Some will fall for alcohol and drugs, others into mental illnesses. A few will luck out to get our golden ticket, low-income housing. I keep trudging along until my golden ticket comes through.
If income doesn’t hold us back, all the fees just to apply and have good credit will. Then we need 2.5 to 3 times more income than rent, while Boise’s rental market is beyond most of our incomes. So many hoops to jump through.
So my friends help me when my steps falter and pick me up when I can’t stand. The Project Well-Being program helps keep me going by lifting my spirit and mental well-being. My art and writing also give me a voice and give me peace. Each step leads me to a better life. By my last steps, I will be home.