Getachew
Hi, My name is
Getachew..
Getachew came to America seeking a better future, but unexpected setbacks left him searching for help. At Philly House, care, faith and encouragement helped open the door to new hope, right on his 65th birthday!
One Step Closer to Home
Getachew came to America from Ethiopia in search of stability, opportunity and the chance to build a better future. He left behind his wife, children and extended family, determined to work hard and save so that one day he could reunite his family in the United States.
He found steady work as a parking attendant, known for being dependable, polite and always on time. But after a family emergency overseas and an extended absence, everything changed. His job was no longer available, his savings quickly ran out and he lost the apartment he once called home. The dream of bringing his family to America began to feel farther away than ever.
At 64 years old, finding steady work became much harder, despite his strong work ethic and desire to work. With no family nearby and nowhere else to turn, Getachew came to Philly House.
“At first, I was very nervous,” he says. “I’ve always been able to take care of myself. But then, I could not.” Weary and alone, Getachew accepted a meal, a warm place to sleep and a moment to breathe. For the first time in months, he was not facing hardship alone.
““I know now that patience is good. Since we believe in God, everything will be achievable. We have to give our way to God.”
”
As he settled in, staff walked alongside him and introduced him to the resources available through Philly House. He soon learned that Philly House is much more than a place to eat and rest. Through steady support and encouragement, Getachew was connected to opportunities to work again and begin rebuilding stability. As his dignity was restored, so was his hope.
“I know now that patience is good,” he says. “Since we believe in God, everything will be achievable. We have to give our way to God.”
His dream of reuniting with his family began to feel possible again. Then, just minutes before sharing his story with us, Getachew received unexpected good news. He qualified for a room at a senior living transitional home, a space he could soon call his own. This is a meaningful step toward long-term stability and eventually getting his own apartment. Even more fitting, it arrived on his 65th birthday.
Getachew’s smile stretched from ear to ear. “You ask me what I am thankful for,” he says. “I am thankful for so much! The meals, the bed, the help, the care. Everything has been good.”
Through private donations from caring people like you, lives are met with dignity, support and renewed possibilities. At Philly House, Hope Lives Here!
Providing Unconditional
Refuge and Hope
Help us provide hope to the homeless, hungry and hurting of Philadelphia.
