Winter 2023
Project Community Connect
Project Community Connect was a success! This year, we served more than 150 individual households. Of those households, more than 50 people were living without shelter. We provided sleeping bags, tents, tarps, backpacks, camping equipment, and boots for unsheltered individuals. Guests were able to select camping equipment, bungee cords, foot kits, tent repair kits, and small propane canisters for camping stoves. Unfortunately, we only had 11 pairs of waterproof boots to give away. A gentleman expressed his gratitude by saying, “Thank you so much. Now my feet won’t be wet or get cold.” The shoes he was wearing had huge holes and peeling soles. He is the reason we do what we do.
The DSHS Mobile Office truck was parked outside the lodge and was able to see clients from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. Caseworkers saw more than 150 people. Clients signed up for food stamps, health care, and other benefits. This was a big help for our guests because the DSHS office on the Peninsula has been closed for more than a year. Currently, to access a DSHS office, people must travel to South Bend, and this is a huge barrier for many people.
The Pacific County Health Department provided free vaccinations and other services. Cowlitz Community Health provided dental exams, as did the Smile Mobile’s staff. Timberland Libraries gave away free books. PPR gave away toiletries, clothing, and new underwear. His Supper Table cooked up a fine batch of chili for lunch.
Everyone attending the event had a story. Each story is unique, but they all share one thing in common, and that is the struggle to provide food and shelter. One such story follows. The woman looked like a typical grandma; her hair was almost completely white, she was slightly built and spry, and she was homeless. At 70 years old, she was living on the streets because she could no longer afford her rent. “I’m so cold,” she said. “I can’t keep doing this. I’ve already been in the hospital twice this month.” Tears welled up in her eyes, and she continued, “I’m afraid this is going to kill me.” PPR was able to give her a sleeping bag, but a tent was too much for her to carry. We referred her to Coastal Community Action Programs and to the Health Department to be put on the lists for housing. Sadly, the wait time for a low-income apartment can be more than a year in our community.
Thank You, Astoria Co-op
Astoria Co-op honored PPR with their Change for Change program in January. PPR was presented with a $3,070.02 check. This will help provide necessary goods for people living without shelter. We are grateful for the support of community businesses.
January HUB Report
112 households were served in the month of January. 74 of those households were new to PPR. Gasoline was the most requested form of assistance through the HUB, and we expended $2,001.09.
Have a Heart for the Homeless
Help PPR help the homeless in our community. Your kindhearted donation will help your unhoused neighbors survive the winter.