Recently, I was called to assist a client in Seattle’s Phinney Ridge neighborhood. The home, once a beautiful residence, had fallen into severe disrepair—so much so that restoration was no longer an option. The client had lived in these deteriorating conditions for years and had just transitioned to an assisted living facility. My role was to enter the home and retrieve clothing and personal belongings to bring to her new apartment.
Nothing could have prepared me for what I saw when I opened the door. While it's not unusual for us to encounter neglected homes, what truly shocked me was the structural condition of this house. There was no power or running water—no heat, no working shower, no functioning toilet.
The living room floors were warped from rainwater leaking through gaping holes in the walls. The front stairs had completely rotted away, rendering the main entrance unusable. The backyard was overgrown, with only a narrow path along the side of the house providing access through a back door. It was heartbreaking to see how someone had managed to survive in such conditions.
We located the items she requested, had them professionally cleaned, and delivered them to her new residence. Today, she’s thriving. With access to regular meals, medical support, and a safe, healthy living environment, her quality of life has improved dramatically.
Mental health challenges are often at the heart of the cases we handle. This story is a powerful reminder of the difference one person can make. Thanks to a concerned neighbor who refused to look the other way, this client is now in a place of care and dignity.