At Catholic Community Service of Western Washington, the values of compassion, diversity, excellence of service, justice and stewardship live and breathe.
So, too, is the value of flexibility.
Money received from the federal government is restrictive; there are ways in which it can and cannot be used.
On the other hand, money received from the Combined Federal Campaign, or CFC, is not as restrictive and allows CCSWW the flexibility to address the needs of its clients.
"While federal grants provide the financial assistance used to house homeless veterans in Pierce County, there are limitations to how the monies can be used," wrote Patti-Spaulding-Klewin, Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) and Rapid Re-Housing supervisor, in an email.
"The greater flexibility means that we can help veterans when they need the most assistance."
Ninety-two percent of CFC money goes directly into supporting CCSWW's mission.
Spaulding-Klewin pointed to a specific example of the CFC's help to their mission.
Currently, about 11 percent of Pierce County's homeless population is comprised of veterans. Of that number, one-third is chronically homeless.
CFC donations allow CCSWW to help veterans work through issues with addiction, relationships and mental health from the stability and security of stable housing.
Using a Housing First approach to address the problem of veteran homelessness, veterans can achieve a sense of stability with the help of CCSWW staff and community partners.
Take Gary for example.
A Vietnam veteran, he struggled with depression and alcoholism. He lived in his Toyota Corolla with his dog and belongings.
By connecting with a case manager at CCS-Supportive Services for Veteran Families, he was placed in a house.
"I remember our first night in the house. Nothing but a jacket to keep us warm," Gary related in a conversation with Spaulding-Klewin.
"I didn't want to turn up the heat ... but I had heat to turn up."
With a house to live in, he has taken advantage of going to furniture and food banks to put his life back together.
"I am overwhelmed by the type of work (CCSWW) does," concluded Gary.
The flexibility of CFC donations makes a difference.
The Catholic Community Services of Western Washington's CFC donation number is 56859.
"We provide more than basic needs, more than ‘things,'" continued Spaulding-Klewin.
"We provide each individual with the opportunity to find the dignity and respect they deserve."
For more information about CSSWW, visit www.ccsww.org, email pattis@ccsww.org, or call 253.471.5340, extension 2316.