When the news came through, it wasn’t just staff and officials celebrating. It was friends showing up with pickup trucks, lifting boxes, hauling furniture, and donating the missing pieces—pots, lamps, bedding—that turned bare apartments into homes filled with comfort. It was the Housing Lopez staff and board celebrating the completion of nearly four years of hard work to buy the land, design the project, work with the County through the permitting process, and watch it all come together on site.

And thanks to your generosity during Give Lopez in May, every new resident received a housewarming welcome gift—thoughtful essentials that made their space feel immediately like home. It was Debbie Collins, Delma Myer, Lexi Taylor, Carol Deckelbaum, Martha Martin,Taya Higgins, Laurie Latta, Mary Connors, and Judy Myers bringing handmade, crocheted potholders and dish cloths.. It was Christa Campbell baking and delivering “welcome home” cookies. These gifts were possible because of you, and they carried a powerful message: You belong here. We’re glad you’re home.

As the season turned from sunshine to steady rain, everyone knew the urgency. The push was on to get our most vulnerable neighbors into safe, warm, dry homes before another winter took its toll. And it happened—together.

We are deeply grateful to Jane Fuller, our San Juan County Council representative, who championed this final step. And we are equally grateful for the chorus of voices who shared, with tears in their eyes, words like:

“I can’t believe I get to sleep here tonight.”
“I haven’t been warm in winter for more than seven years.”
“I feel so well cared for!”

These homes are more than buildings. They are the embodiment of Lopez Island’s spirit: kindness, resilience, and community.
To every supporter, donor, volunteer, knitter, baker, mover, and believer—thank you. Village North is standing today because of you.

With deep gratitude,
The Housing Lopez Team