From homeless to housed: former river bottom resident thriving

"Whether it's a ledge in the river bottom or a bench, we're asking people to come into their space and give us their trust. That's not easy," she said. "I remember the day Tommy said yes and that's what catapulted everything."

Tempe owns a bridge shelter, Sue's Espacio, which allowed the team to move Singley off the streets more quickly and begin addressing his medical needs and housing.

The city also serves as an entry point into the region's housing system for unsheltered people, which allows HOPE to streamline the process of finding housing for those in need.

"That regional coordination was key to finding Tommy permanent supportive housing with access to a dedicated case manager, social services, rides to medical appointments and whatever else is needed to keep him stable and housed," said Homeless Solutions Manager Jessica Wright.

Looking to the future
Today, a cheerful "Welcome" sign hangs outside Singley's apartment door. He appreciates the new community around him, basics like having his own shower, a dedicated space in his apartment for his bible studies and the safety of living indoors.

Singley occasionally stops by the HOPE office at the Tempe Public Library just to stay in touch.

"The HOPE team can get it done," he said. "I'm living proof of that."