As Faith reflected on her 61 years of life, it was plain to see that they have not been easy ones. But even as she recounted troubles that would have broken most people, she cracked jokes and laughed freely, repeatedly saying, “It’s okay, I’m okay.” She wanted to make sure she wasn’t worrying anyone, because that’s the kind of person Faith is: someone who is always looking out for others, even before herself.
Faith is new to Street Roots, having joined in August, but she’s already a consistent warm presence in the space, constantly donating clothes, volunteering her time and ensuring her fellow vendors feel welcome.
Under all this positivity, Faith has been struggling with bone cancer and multiple sclerosis. Her strategy to get through it is taking life “one day at a time,” and it’s clear that she has found ways to fill her days with things she enjoys. She plays sports, regularly attends church, cares for her one-year-old puppy and hopes to be out fishing again soon — a favorite hobby since her teenage years.
She also loves to read; her favorite book is “A Walk Across America,” by Peter Jenkins, a journey she made herself in her youth. Sadly, reading has become difficult for her lately due to vision loss.
Faith grew up in Tacoma, and has more recently made Portland her home. Her favorite thing about Portland is the people. She is always happy to chat, feeling that talking with others “gets things off your chest.” Street Roots has become a core part of her life in Portland.
“I like it here,” Faith said. “They help out a lot. If you need to talk to somebody, they’re good people.”
In the coming years, Faith plans to keep working for Street Roots and hopes to soon purchase an electric wheelchair.
Faith regularly drops papers off at Gilsan Oasis Day Center and can be found selling at Southeast 160th Street and Stark Street. She is also often inside Street Roots, rocking her “Friends” onesie and spreading joy.
You can also support Faith through the @StreetRoots Venmo by entering her name and badge number (1361) in the notes.
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This article appears in October 29, 2025.