Rose Impson: Resident at Valley Vista

Being housed has given me hope for a better life and gives me my dignity back. I feel like I am a member of society. I was on the streets in downtown San Diego for three years prior to moving into Valley Vista.

I was in fear when I was homeless especially with the criminal activity going on. I always slept on the cement with one eye open. I experienced sleep deprivation and did not know when I would eat my next meal. I saw my physical and mental health being affected by what I was surrounded with.

It has changed my life in many ways. I have been able to address my physical health and even though I am still working on my fear and anxiety, I now feel I have something to look forward too. Being housed has let me reunite with my family which is very important to me. They are very happy to know I am no longer on the streets. I am starting to feel a sense of community. I attend the women’s workshop which has assisted me in working through emotional trauma. I have made friends with some of the elderly women at Valley Vista.

Even though I am not as social as I would like to be, I am making baby steps in becoming more involved.

Housing has been life-changing for me.