Roger is a houseless man in our community who has spent a long time sheltering beneath a bridge, living in his non-running vehicle with his beloved dog and kitten. He walks nearly 10 miles each day to and from town to charge his electronics, and his pets are his constant companions and family.

Recently, devastating flood waters overtook the area where Roger had been staying, destroying his vehicle, his belongings, and the only place he considered home. This loss has left him with nothing, and he is now facing his rock bottom.

Roger has struggled with mental health, isolation, and while he has been hesitant to accept traditional shelter or housing help in the past—mainly because he did not want to leave his pets or the few things that brought him comfort—he is now open to receiving support. Thankfully, his animals are being cared for by someone he trusts, and their needs will continue to be met.

Someone Roger deeply trusts has been walking alongside him, and together we are working to help him rebuild in a way that respects his wishes and meets his needs. Roger has trusted very few people, so building that trust matters.

I have created this GoFundMe to help with his immediate needs and, depending on what is raised, to potentially help him obtain more permanent shelter such as a small camper, building, or vehicle. If we are not able to reach those larger goals, funds will be used carefully for practical needs as they come up—shelter, supplies, a bike, food, water, and ongoing support. I will be managing the funds, and the person he trusts will help communicate with him and make decisions about how those funds are used so that his needs and wishes are honored.

Above all, please remember Roger is a person—a child of God, a human, someone’s family member, someone worthy of dignity, kindness, and compassion. A small act of generosity from many people can make a life-changing difference. Thank you to everyone who has reached out, prayed, offered help, and shown compassion.