Loretta is one of the unhoused people I see when I go to the Leon Creek Greenway. She lives in a tent with her dog and cat near the greenway and has never asked for anything, but after seeing her many times and people bringing her food, I decided to take her some food, an emergency blanket, and handwarmers for an upcoming very cold night. As I brought her things a couple more times, I started to get to know her and learned about her story. Loretta used to run a landscaping business, but after a bad wreck that destroyed her vehicle and equipment, and with the medical bills that followed, she could no longer afford housing.

Loretta is very religious, ministers to others that are unhoused in the area, and cares for various stray cats and dogs ('all of God's creatures') she finds in the area. I found out that if you give her food or money, she only keeps part of it and will share it with other unhoused people or stray animals. Loretta wants to start working in landscaping again, which she would do right now if she had someplace that could care for her dog and cat. Getting financially on her feet and securing housing would make all the difference for her and her pets. She’s not just focused on helping herself—Loretta’s dream is to expand her ministry to help others, meet people’s needs, and help all animals too.

It took me several months of seeing Loretta before I actually took the step to meet her and get to know her. She is very kind and doesn’t like to focus on the fact that she’s living in a tent right now, but instead focuses on how, if she can improve her situation, she can help more people. If you’re able, please join me in supporting Loretta so she can rebuild her life and continue spreading kindness in our community.