Herb never thought he would experience homelessness and need to reach out for help. But after depleting his savings to care for his sick mom, Herb found himself living on the edge and juggling which bills to pay. Then his mom passed away and all of the bills came due. He lost his home when he could no longer pay the rent. He lived in his car until it got too cold. That's when he found BEDS.
"I wasn't expecting to be in a position where I couldn't pay my bills," he said. "It never occurred to me that I would be in that situation."
BEDS helped Herb get back on his feet. After spending time in our shelters, Herb moved into his own apartment at the end of September.
"Eventually, all things lined up and I could check all the boxes," said Herb, who is very much appreciative of the help he found through BEDS.
For Herb, home means his own space. He doesn't have to travel to the YMCA to shower. He has his own bedroom where it is quiet. He is looking for a new job and working with BEDS staff. Herb is thinking about taking some online educational courses in the future. And he wants to pay it forward - he hopes to serve as a BEDS volunteer.
"I do want to pay back the help I've gotten," he said. "There are so many things I am very, very grateful for."