a village helper

Teresa moved into our Parkrose Village almost a year ago. She had fled a messy relationship situation on the East Coast and driven to the Pacific Ocean, her mind filled with thoughts of suicide. 

However, once she arrived, her depression receded. Almost immediately, she noticed a more accepting and welcoming vibe for herself as a lesbian of color. Although she missed family terribly, she realized that her mental health was actually better here in the Portland area. She felt free from the many obligations and demands that family and others had made on her in the past and able to focus on her own needs for the first time in many years.

Within a short amount of time, Teresa became very active as a village helper, taking advantage of part-time job opportunities with WeShine. She also tried out several jobs outside the village to see what type of job was the least stressful and the most rewarding for her personally. She engaged in counseling and got medication for her debilitating anxiety and depression. 

Today, Teresa is saving money and searching for housing in collaboration with our Housing Placement Specialist. She is also attending to both chronic and acute health issues. She plans to move out of the village in the next few months.