'I Felt Like I Was Home'

As a taxi driver in Seward decades ago, Walter was a frequent visitor to Alaska Housing Finance Corporation’s housing assistance location for seniors and individuals with disabilities. He would often give rides to people living in the Glacier View facility and it made him consider his own future.

“I’d sit out front and say, ‘Gosh, I wonder if I’ll ever live here?’” said Walter, who has been a Glacier View resident since 2017. “And all those years later, here we are.”

Making Alaska His Home

Walter first came to Alaska in 1969 from southern California and was quickly taken with the state’s ruggedness and sense of freedom. He moved to Seward in the mid-1970s, where he worked many years for the Alaska Department of Fish and Game fighting forest fires across the state.

A few years ago, Walter had a health condition that required him to move in with family in Arizona. Seeking to return to Alaska, he looked for housing in Seward and was placed on a waiting list at Glacier View. While he was expecting to wait several months or up to a year for placement, within a week a spot opened up and he was on his way.

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“I was so happy to get back to Seward. I lived there for years and it was just so cool to be back because I consider this my hometown.”

– Walter, Glacier View Resident

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An Easy Transition

Since he lived in the area so long, he knew many of the other Glacier View residents which made the transition that much easier.

“It was like, gosh all these old friends are here,” he said. “When I was shown my apartment I felt like I was home.”

Walter said the two-person staff at Glacier View play a big role in the quality of life for residents. Whether ensuring they are meeting residency requirements, filling out proper paperwork or maintaining units in a timely fashion, they make a difference for the residents.

Finding the Answer to His Question

Today, Walter spends time with other residents, watching television and reading books. He also plays video games such as Grand Theft Auto and Red Dead Redemption on his PlayStation. A nephew visiting from California introduced Walter to video games and they often connect online and play.

Years after sitting in his cab and wondering what it would be like to live in Glacier View, Walter has his answer.

“It is better than I thought,” he said. “I just like this place. The apartments are just about the right size, I have a good view on the third floor. I like what I have.”

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We recognize that Walter’s story is exceptional and some Alaskans may be in need of safe, quality, affordable housing. If you require housing resources, we encourage you to contact Alaska 2-1-1. This free, confidential resource can help you to locate assistance in your home community. Dial 2-1-1 or 1-800-478-2221 or visit alaska211.org.

AHFC’s Public Housing maintains waitlists statewide. See openings in your community. Seniors can also find information from our Senior Housing Office or by calling 800-478-2432.