Pam’s previous life left her feeling isolated and powerless. As a senior citizen, she felt alone at an assisted living center, she longed for an active living environment, one where she could be independent, where her disability did not define her, somewhere she felt valued. Pam found that and much more at the New Tacoma Apartments.

Pam moved to New Tacoma in May of 2011. Immediately, the residence staff assisted her in signing up for DSHS benefits, she learned that she was eligible for a free cell phone and even food stamps. The feeling of financial security allowed Pam to venture to help others at New Tacoma. She signed up to volunteer for the Senior Companion Program and with the help of Lutheran Community Services, Pam completed a 40 hour training and now is excited to volunteer 4 hours a week, helping other seniors. Today, Pam feels like an important part of the community at New Tacoma, where she didn’t just find a place to live, but found a community to call home.

Read more from Mercy Housing Northwest in their latest issue of From Our Front Porch.