Body Work for the Homeless

Homelessness is, in itself, extremely stressful,” says Debbie, when asked about her experience receiving massage therapy. “I had so much stress and pain in my body. Massage lowered the pain level and the stress at the same time, helping me to relax. I was tensing up all the time; this really helped.” Debbie received massage sessions at the transitional housing program where she lived. The massage therapist and naturopathic physician who worked with her were volunteers for the Alternative Healthcare Access Campaign (AHAC).   More >>

Volunteer therapists bring natural healing to homeless

Homeless young people in tattered jeans sit on the steps of a church in the University District. Others stand in the alley or lie in the dirt under a tree.  Most are hoping to get one of the 27 sleeping mats that staff will lay out at the ROOTS young adult shelter, inside the University Temple United Methodist Church. A few are waiting for something more often given away at for-profit spas, not nonprofit shelters — a massage. More >>