It's difficult to find the words to describe Mr. Wheat, an elderly veteran. He is a man that lives by a strong moral compass and has a deep compassion for those who are lucky enough to cross his path. Mr. Wheat was just released from prison after serving almost 60 years behind bars. Until earlier this week, he was the longest serving person in Washington's prison system. 

Many become jaded or bitter after a few short years, but not Mr. Wheat. He is one of the kindest humans you will ever have the pleasure of meeting. He is soft spoken and extremely empathetic.  

Mr. Wheat has laid the foundation for countless positive programs and organizations within the prison, and always makes time for a person in need. Many would go as far as to call him a father figure, a voice of reason, a true friend, and a devoted man of faith.

However, it could just be the pocket full of candy he carries that makes him such a popular guy—you could fill an entire room with all the candy he has shared over the years, often with strangers. You'll never pass Mr. Wheat in the hall without him offering a kind smile and a piece of candy. But that is Mr. Wheat, always giving far more than he takes.

The money raised will help Mr. Wheat get his life started. Allow him to pay bills, purchase clothes, and possibly his first cell phone. Mr. Wheat has never used a cell phone or the internet.

Most of all, it will help him have one less thing to worry about allowing him the chance to better focus on reintegrating back into society. A task that will consume all of his energy--things were a whole lot different in 1963.

We are looking to raise the funds within the next 30 days. Mr. Wheat was released from prison on November 12, 2020.

Knowing Mr. Wheat, he'll probably cry when he is presented with the money raised. He will try and say it is too much and he couldn't possibly accept it. It will touch him to know that so many support him and are willing to invest in his new beginning. Something he has done for so many of us.

This fundraiser was created by Chelsea Moore and her husband Christopher Blackwell who is a long-time friend of Mr. Wheat.  Chelsea lives in Seattle and will give a check for the total amount raised directly to Mr. Wheat. Mr. Wheat will use the funds on anything he may need such as housing related expenses, food, transportation, etc.