Khristina Simpson, a dedicated home care provider for many years, faced a difficult turning point in her life when her rent unexpectedly doubled. At 66 years old, she found herself struggling to keep up with payments, ultimately leading to her homelessness.
“I was stressed, I lost weight,” she shared, reflecting on the emotional toll her situation took on her. “Stomach tied up in knots, and sometimes I wouldn’t even have an appetite.”
After experiencing two challenging years of moving between motels, shelters, and even living in her car, hope finally arrived last August when she applied for housing assistance from The Bridge, a homeless recovery center located in Dallas. By April, Simpson was able to move into her own one-bedroom apartment in Plano.
“When I moved here, I told my son I died and went to heaven,” she expressed with joy. “It just gave me a new start, a new beginning.”
Simpson is among 20 long-term clients of The Bridge who have recently transitioned into stable housing. The organization offers substantial rent assistance and provides clients with necessary household items such as furniture and dishes.
Founded 17 years ago, The Bridge aims to provide temporary shelter alongside essential services including three daily hot meals, hygiene services, and housing opportunities. The nonprofit also collaborates with local clinics to deliver behavioral, mental health, and substance use services to those in need.
Though homelessness numbers have decreased by almost 25% since 2021, a recent Point-in-Time count revealed that over 3,500 individuals were still experiencing homelessness in Dallas and Collin counties. David Woody III, the CEO and president of The Bridge, acknowledges the ongoing challenges.
image source from：keranews
