Walter Parker
Walter Parker grew up on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., and worked for the Washington Gas Company for 14 years. When his favorite niece got sick, he quit his job to care for her. However, getting back into the workforce was difficult, and he spent many more years experiencing homelessness. Walter lived outside all over DC, but he usually returned to the neighborhood he knew best on Capitol Hill.
For many years, Walter lived in the park near Capitol Hill United Methodist Church. He helped start their breakfast program and developed strong relationships with many church members. Pastor Alisa was instrumental in helping him begin the journey to housing. In 2017, at 75 years old, Walter was matched to a housing voucher and assigned to MK’s Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) team. With the help of a church member, Walter and his case manager found an apartment on Capitol Hill, which turned out to be only a few blocks away from where he grew up! Walter was delighted to be living in his home neighborhood.
“Living inside is much better,” Walter shared. “You don’t have to worry about rain or snow – it’s definitely more comfortable than sleeping outside. And I love the location – I know everybody over here.”
With support from his Case Manager, Walter led an active and independent life his first few years after obtaining housing. He rode his bike all over Capitol Hill, maintaining meaningful relationships in the community.
A few years ago, Walter had a biking accident, broke his hip, and developed a severely infected toe. He had to recover in a rehab program and was depressed to be living far from his community. His family and friends were there for him, but to stay in his home, Walter needed even more help. Kayleigh, his current MK case manager, recognized this immediately and stepped in to make sure he had the support he needed.
Kayleigh helped to get him a walker and a wheelchair, and she brought him groceries and meals. Together, they found two home health aides (one for the daytime and one for the evening) who provide support so he can continue to thrive. At 81 years old, his routine involves frequent stops to check in on friends, waves, and hollers from more friends walking past. He also spends time in a park that used to be home but is now just a perfect place to visit.
