As homelessness grows in Montana, so does the number of elderly Friends in Billings. It is alarming that seniors are the fastest-growing homeless group, according to the latest census. With fixed incomes and often little support from family, elderly Friends are left to fend for themselves.
Our 69-year-young Friend, Charles, found himself newly homeless in Billings. His story is a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by many. Happily, Charles came to St. Vincent de Paul for a meal, and he found a lifeline.
Experiencing severe abdominal pain, we rapidly took him to Riverstone Healthcare for the Homeless Clinic. Tragically, he was diagnosed with prostate cancer. Despite living on the street, Charles began treatment. We scheduled appointments then drove him to the needed care in our passenger van.

"Without your help, I would have never been able to get to my treatments! You also let me store my stuff for safekeeping so nothing was stolen when I got back! Thank God for St. Vincent de Paul."
As Billings only Daytime Shelter, we are a safe place in an otherwise uncertain future. For Friends undergoing life-saving treatments, we keep a closer eye on them to make sure their appointments are kept by driving them in our passenger van across town to community healthcare partners.
Chuck, as he prefers to be called now, treatments continue to have marked improvements. His outlook is positive, and he is deeply grateful for every kindness from everyone and for every van ride.
His story reminds us how support is critical to those in need. It is a reminder of our volunteers’ immense impact along with generous donors who made our first passenger van possible that helps so many year-round. As more elderly Friends come to St. Vincent de Paul for meals or support and to just avoid loneliness the need for compassion grows. Together with you, our Friends of our Friends, and community partners’ support, the care and respect for Friends of all ages will continue in the time ahead.
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