Two Open Doors Sleep Center clients discuss impacts of closure

MOSES LAKE – As the countdown to the closure of the Open Doors Sleep Center continues, individuals relying on its services face renewed uncertainty.  

Among those impacted by the closure are Brett Tolley, a resident of Moses Lake for over 15 years, and Daniel Clark, who has been unsheltered for nearly three decades.  

The Sleep Center, a place for those experiencing homelessness, has provided more than just shelter, they said. It has offered a sense of community, security and a place to rest.  

Tolley, who often spends his days seeking small jobs in hopes of making enough money to eat, said there is a stigma attached to homelessness.  

"People have gotten more jaded over time," he said. "When I introduce myself and ask if I can offer my help, most people just laugh or turn away."  

Having lost his wife and daughter several years back in a car accident, Tolley sees his current life as a combination of trying to survive and reaching out to connect with others. The trauma from the loss of his family led him to his current situation. 

"It's not freedom for everyone; for some, it is an illness that takes hold and won’t let go,” Tolley said.  

Clark, on the other hand, has a different perspective shaped by years of navigating the complexities of being unsheltered since moving from Phoenix, Arizona, to be closer to his family.  

"I’m here, trying to do better for my daughter and myself," he said.  

After living on the streets for more than 25 years, he said he is frustrated with the increasing hostility and reduced resources available to those experiencing homelessness in Moses Lake. 

Both Tolley and Clark expressed concerns over the imminent closure of the Sleep Center and the difficulties that will ensue. Clark said there is a significant impact of losing a reliable address for job opportunities.  

"You can't get an ID or a job without a home or an address. It’s a perpetual cycle that keeps us from moving forward," Clark said. “The Sleep Center, for most of u,s was the address we could use to find a job.”  

Tolley echoed Clark.  

"The resources have gotten better since I first became homeless, but it isn’t enough. There are places to eat, yes, but no significant support for employment or stable housing,” Tolley said.  

He noted the irony in people suggesting individuals simply “get a job,” questioning how one is expected to find work without a permanent address or access to basic amenities. 

The two men said there are a few resources that could significantly improve the lives of homeless people in the community. Tolley suggested the community should focus on providing tangible goods if they want to help people get back on their feet. 

"Things like socks and clothing donations are vital,” he said. “Those are like gold to us.”  

He also pointed to the essential need for accessible health care services.  

“Mental health support is critical, especially for those deeply affected by grief or trauma,” Tolley said.  

For Clark, the vision includes creating a platform for collaboration and accountability among the homeless community.  

“I believe we should have a say in our resources—why not allow us to run a nonprofit organization that takes care of us?” he said.  

Clark said he was interested in the potential for a community-driven solution. One that offers the often-discussed hand up instead of a handout.  

“Let us be part of the solution instead of being treated like a problem,” Clark said. “We just need opportunities.” 

Both men said it was important to them to be seen as part of the community.  

“We’re all here,” Clark said. “We want to be part of this city. The more we engage with each other, the better it can be for everyone.”  

With the impending closure of the Sleep Center and an uncertain future ahead, both said they hope the community will remember they are just that: members of Moses Lake, worthy of compassion, opportunity and support.  

“It’s about connection,” Tolley said. “At the end of the day, we all want to feel human, to feel valued.”