When medical care requires more than a hospital stay, recovery can quickly become out of reach for those without a place to rest, heal, and be supported. That reality has long shaped the experience of men and women facing homelessness. Today, through Pacific Garden Mission’s Respite Program, that story is beginning to change.

Roman is one such example.

After living with severe hip pain for years, Roman finally received the surgery he had long been denied. For most patients, that would be followed by a carefully supervised recovery plan. For someone without a home, that next step rarely exists. Through the Respite Program, Roman had a place to recover safely, receive follow-up care, and regain strength with dignity. What was once impossible became reality.

A Physician’s Perspective

Dr. Porte, PGM’s on-site physician, has walked alongside Roman throughout this journey. Having served as his primary care provider for years, Dr. Porte witnessed firsthand the limits of treatment when recovery resources are unavailable. Now, he is seeing something different.

Roman’s progress has been steady and measurable, but the most telling moment came when Dr. Porte asked how his pain was doing. Roman answered simply, “Better,” then reached out to shake his hand, overwhelmed with gratitude. It was a quiet moment, but one that spoke volumes about what compassionate, Christ-centered care can accomplish.

That same transformation is unfolding for others as well. Guests who once managed serious wounds while living on the streets are now healing fully through consistent care, supervision, and support. Some have completed the Respite Program and are taking meaningful steps toward stability and housing.

A Ministry Bearing Fruit

The Respite Program is already reshaping what recovery looks like for some of the most vulnerable in our city. Because of your prayers and faithful support, guests are no longer forced to choose between survival and healing. Instead, they are met with compassion, medical care, and the love of Christ at a critical moment in their lives.

Thank you for standing with Pacific Garden Mission as this ministry continues to grow. Through your partnership and your ongoing support, healing is happening where it once seemed out of reach.