“I Had Nothing”: Mother Forced to Choose Between Abuse and Homelessness

In the newest StoryCorps "Finding Our Way" story, Jordan Hedgecock (left) tells Tanya Mettlen from Catholic Community Services about facing homelessness after leaving an abusive relationship. Image credit: StoryCorps.

With only $4 cash and no access to her bank account or credit cards, Jordan Hedgecock strapped her children in their carseats and fled an abusive partner. Hear about their experience with homelessness, read how their story fits into the larger context of domestic violence and homelessness in our state, and learn what you can do today to help ensure that all families have the opportunity to live in safe, healthy, affordable homes.

The Voices Behind the Numbers

In the newest StoryCorps "Finding Our Way" story, Taylor Henson tells his friend Chelsea Lindquist about his family's experience with homelessness. Voices like Taylor's motivate our staff to advocate for policies that will help end homelessness.

32,494. That’s the number of homeless students in Washington. Taylor Henson is the voice. After Taylor’s mom left the military, their family ended up homeless. Listen to Taylor describe the stress and depression that he faced as a homeless student, and the life-changing joy that he found in photography. Then read what you can do to help create opportunities for families to live in safe, affordable homes.

Policy Matters: The Fair Tenant Screening Act Could Save Someone’s Life

The Fair Tenant Screening Act would help put housekeys in the hands of people who are experiencing homelessness. Image from <a href="http://pixabay.com/en/keys-hand-open-chain-bunch-metal-452889/" target="_blank">Pixabay.com</a>. — The Fair Tenant Screening Act would help put housekeys in the hands of people who are experiencing homelessness. Image from Pixabay.com.

Jen Haynes from YWCA of Spokane shares how the Fair Tenant Screening Act, a bill that is pending at the state legislature, would help domestic violence survivors get into safe housing.

“We Had to Tell Her About Santa”: Homeless Parents Face Impossible Choices

From left, Lawrence, Zoe and Andrea Charles spent years without a stable home. In a recent StoryCorps interview, Lawrence said of his daughter, "She's just starting to realize we're poor." Photo credit: Dan Lamont for Firesteel.

In a new story produced from the StoryCorps "Finding Our Way" project, Andrea and Lawrence Charles talk about protecting their daughter while experiencing homelessness. Listen to their conversation, and see photos by Dan Lamont documenting the Charles's everyday life as they transition from homelessness to stability.

I’m an Advocate: Betty Jimerson

YWCA Seattle I King I Snohomish staff were joined by representatives from the Gates Foundation and Mayor Murray's office for the Jan. 22 One Night Count. Photo courtesy Erin Murphy.

Our YWCA Seattle | King | Snohomish colleague Betty Jimerson is an energetic advocate who shares her personal story of family homelessness in order to help others. Read how activities like volunteering with the One Night Count, passing out sandwiches in downtown Seattle, and testifying in Olympia fit into her definition of advocacy.

Get the Firesteel Blog in Your Inbox