Yakima Neighborhood Health Services Receives a $10,000 Gift from National Homelessness Advocate Dr. Jim O’Connell
We are excited to announce that Yakima Neighborhood Health Services (YNHS) received a $10,000 gift from Dr. Jim O’Connell, a nationally recognized physician and long-time champion for individuals experiencing homelessness. Dr. O’Connell, founder of the Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program, was recently profiled in the acclaimed book Rough Sleepers: Dr. Jim O’Connell’s Urgent Mission to Bring Healing to Homeless People. Proceeds from the book are used to fund gifts like the one provided to YNHS.
Dr. O’Connell visited Yakima in November 2024, for a community forum on homelessness and health care hosted by Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences (PNWU). Over the years, he’s been a strong advocate and supporter of YNHS and their effort to support people experiencing housing insecurity.
YNHS President and CEO Rhonda Hauff expressed gratitude for the unexpected support:
“The gift was a wonderful surprise, and the funds will be used to purchase new clothing and supplies for people using our Neighborhood Showers,” said Hauff.
The Neighborhood Showers program offers mobile shower services throughout the Yakima Valley, giving individuals experiencing homelessness a safe, dignified space to clean up, refresh, and connect with YNHS staff who can help them access additional health and social services. The gift will directly replenish essential items such as shirts, pants, socks, undergarments, hygiene supplies, and towels.
Hauff added, “We are deeply grateful to Dr. O’Connell for recognizing the importance of this work and for supporting the dignity of our unhoused neighbors.”
Thank you, Dr. O’Connell, for your continued compassion and commitment to our community!