How Affordable Housing Helped Kim Donovan Reclaim Her Independence

Meet Kim

Kim Donovan and her dog Gibbs

Kim Donovan has lived with multiple sclerosis (MS) for more than three decades. Her life, like so many people dealing with chronic illness, had become focused on daily struggles that others rarely see. She also cared for her father, who had Alzheimer's, and tried to support another family member battling addiction. Stability felt impossible; yet, it’s what she needed most.

She wasn’t looking for miracles. Just a safe, affordable home where she could breathe, heal, and regain control of her life.

Overcoming Uncertainty: Finding a Home in Seattle

When Kim first moved into Bellwether’s Graham Terry building in downtown Seattle, she was uncertain. Assumptions and stigmas around affordable housing created anxiety. But standing in her new apartment for the first time, Kim noticed a tree just outside her window, a comforting mixture of city and country quietly offering a reminder that stability was within reach.

For the first time in years that she felt genuinely hopeful.

Finding Community at Bellwether Housing

By offering Kim keys to an apartment Bellwether Housing gave Kim the keys to live her life on her own terms. When her health needs shifted, they moved her into an ADA-accessible unit, specially designed so she could navigate safely and independently. Kim wasn’t merely placed into affordable housing. She was supported every step of the way by her new community.

“This is now more my family than my family is,” Kim shared.

From Stability to Advocacy and Leadership

Kim’s life changed in quiet but profound ways. Being in a highly walkable area, she was now within easy access to stores and shops. She built routines including daily walks with her rescue dog Gibbs, conversations with neighbors, and helping to maintain a community dog park.

She became an active advocate, running an MS support group and helping others navigate similar struggles. She regularly reports accessibility issues to the city, determined to make Seattle safer for everyone facing mobility challenges. She even co-founded a nonprofit (MS-EAS), distributing over $250,000 directly to people with MS for emergency assistance.

Kim’s story didn’t end with housing. It started there.

Why Kim Gives Back to Bellwether Housing

Today, Kim is a dedicated monthly donor to Bellwether Housing. She gives because she knows firsthand the profound difference compassionate, affordable housing can make. “I believe in Bellwether’s values,” Kim says. “I try to give back because we all need help. Bellwether lets me live the best life that I can, and I want to give that same opportunity to someone else.”

Join Us: Support Affordable Housing in Seattle

Stories like Kim’s remind us why affordable housing matters. Help us create more stories like Kim’s by donating to Bellwether Housing today. Your gift helps build safe, accessible, and affordable homes across the Greater Seattle area.

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