After experiencing unexpected tragedy, Urban Alchemy gave Sheila Fitch hope.
Sheila, a long-time Portland resident, was forced to leave her lifelong career as a hairdresser due to the development of arthritis. Fortunately, she qualified for disability and was able to continue to afford her modest lifestyle.
After her retirement, the 62-year-old grandmother decided to sell her home and use the proceeds to help her children out with expenses, in addition to buying a motorhome. She was excited to spend her golden years alternating between traveling the country and being with her family.
Then, after a visit with one of her sons, the unthinkable happened. She left his home to find her motorhome gone. It had been stolen.
Refusing to be a burden on any of her adult children (and over their protests), Sheila bought camping supplies and went to live in a nearby park, thinking it would be a short wait until the authorities found her RV. It wasn’t. And when they finally did, she was able to recover some of her belongings, but not the motorhome itself.
Finding herself well and truly homeless, Sheila connected with a caseworker who arranged for her to move into the Peninsula Safe Rest Village. She was very impressed by the staff and services, enjoying a return to regular hot meals and showers. She also took advantage of many of the classes Urban Alchemy offered residents and felt safe during her stay.
Within a few short months, Sheila was matched with an apartment. Though she was forced to give up her dreams of travel, she plans to spend her days immersed in art and painting while bonding with her children and grandchildren.