Emerging from homelessness is about more than housing

Regina Wilson didn’t like to ask for help and often didn’t trust those offering it. 

In 2022 she had just left the homeless camp in Walla Walla, Wash., and gotten into housing when she met Rachel Dickenson from Providence Population Health. 

Emerging from homelessness doesn’t end when an individual finds housing. It is one important step of many. Over the next two years, Rachel and other community partners worked to help Regina put the pieces together. 

“As time went by, she started trusting me and asking for more help,” Rachel said. 

Regina received assistance with transportation and changed to a new primary care provider, who was better able to address her unique health and wellbeing. Her situation continued to improve, yet she was very isolated. She told Rachel that she wanted to work or volunteer with individuals experiencing homelessness. Regina qualified for an AARP-funded employment program at the Walla Walla Alliance for the Homeless.

Today, Regina is working the first job she has held since 2008, has moved into a new apartment, is bowling and has friends. 

“I was able to graduate Regina from the (Population Health) program and will see and work with her in the community as a colleague going forward,” Rachel said. “I couldn’t be prouder and happier for Regina.”