When Bill King first heard about Grandma’s House of Hope, it was through a friend from church. She told him about the incredible work being done to help people experiencing homelessness in Orange County — and invited him to come see it for himself.
“I got a chance to go over there and see it,” Bill remembers. “And I was very impressed by what I saw. People were being given a second chance — an opportunity to heal and get their lives right. And I thought, Okay, this is where I’d like to put my money.”
For Bill, that visit left a lasting impression.
“I loved that the homes were in neighborhoods,” he says. “They weren’t hidden away or isolated. And the staff — you could tell right away that they really cared. You can’t do this kind of work without a heart for it. When you see people who genuinely care for others who are struggling, it’s inspiring.”
That one visit moved Bill so deeply that he decided to become a monthly donor — and he’s been faithfully giving ever since.
“We all need help in some form or another,” Bill shares. “The problems out there can feel so big, and it’s easy to feel helpless. But when you find a place like Grandma’s House of Hope, you realize you can do your small part to help — and that makes a difference.”
As Bill learned more about Grandma’s House of Hope, one program especially stood out to him: Aftercare.
“I really love the Aftercare Program,” he says with a smile. “It’s incredible that you continue to walk with people even after they’ve moved into permanent housing. You give them a lifeline — emotional support, connection, a community that keeps them going. That’s what makes the difference.”
Today, Grandma's House of Hope’s Aftercare Program supports about 40 graduates, providing ongoing case management, encouragement, and connection for up to two years after they are placed in their own permanent housing. For many, it’s the key to lasting stability — and for Bill, it represents everything Grandma’s House of Hope stands for.
“When you think about it, hope really is the key,” he says. “That word — it’s right there in the name: Grandma’s House of Hope. Without hope, it’s hard to move forward. This organization gives people hope, a home, a community, and a real chance to start again.”
Bill’s generosity comes from a place of deep compassion — and a desire to act when he sees need.
“It’s hard when you’re driving down the street and see people wandering, pushing carts, talking to themselves,” he admits. “You feel helpless and overwhelmed, wondering what you can possibly do. But now I know I can do something. I can give a little each month to help someone rebuild their life.”
With a humble smile, Bill sums it up simply:
“Grandma’s House of Hope is a lifeboat. It rescues people and gives them hope again.”
