Nathan is a Georgetown fixture. He wears eccentric hats and occasionally sports a collection of watches up and down his arms. He grew up in Baltimore and has lived on the streets for more than 40 years, spending most of his days with carts and knick knacks in hand, in Foggy Bottom and Georgetown.

GMC’s executive director, Gunther Stern, says he feels like he’s always known Nathan. They first met 27 years ago while Gunther was on Sandwich Patrol, checking on the homeless individuals in Georgetown and passing out food. Over the years, Nathan replied to suggestions for shelter and housing the same way: “No thanks. I don’t need a place.”

Despite Nathan’s resistance, GMC persisted by visiting him on street outreach and encouraging him to accept help. Stay tuned this month to learn more about the way GMC built a trusting relationship with Nathan, and eventually connected him with housing resources.

To help GMC continue to engage with the vulnerable and service resistant people in our community, please contribute to our matching grant challenge.

We’re 19% of the way towards our $10,000 goal. Please help us meet the match by making a donation by May 31. Your gift of $25 will become $50, $100 will become $200, $500 will become $1,000, but only if we all work together!