Colorado Springs Couple Finds Stability Through Affordable Housing

When Gordon Platt met Thea 37 years ago in Glen Haven, Colorado, they quickly fell in love. “When I met her, there was this resonance. I just felt that I knew her,” Gordon shared. Though both valued their independence, they chose to build a life together and married the following year. They soon moved to Colorado Springs, purchased a home, and created a plan to pay it off. “My sister lived with us, so there were three of us working to pay for the house,” Thea explained.

That plan unraveled unexpectedly. Layoffs at Thea’s job left her unemployed, and soon after, she suffered a stroke. Around the same time, her sister experienced a severe stroke that left her unable to work. With only Gordon’s income, the couple struggled to stay afloat. When Gordon later faced his own medical emergency, they found themselves in a financial crisis and facing the loss of their home.

As they began searching for affordable housing in Colorado Springs within their new budget, the Platts realized income-qualified housing was one of their only options—a difficult reality for a couple who took deep pride in their ability to care for themselves. “It was difficult to admit that I needed help. That was an emotional step to take,” Thea shared. Pushing past those feelings, she visited the Greccio office, where she unexpectedly ran into a close friend who worked at the organization. “It was like, ‘Okay, we can live here.’ Having that familiar face made it feel a little bit better.”

Gordon was still reluctant when they received the news that their application was accepted. After touring the apartment, though, which was located beside a large park, with a towering blue spruce just outside their window, he knew they found their new home.

Once settled, Gordon and Thea committed to making the most of their new circumstances. They began using Greccio’s resident resources and built relationships with staff. When the resident resources team asked for help at the growing Resident Food Pantry, the Platts gladly volunteered. Their involvement deepened, and when a seat opened on the Greccio Board, Thea was invited to serve as the resident representative. “I had no idea that that was a possibility! I was happy to.” More than 10 years later, she continues to serve, offering valuable insight into residents’ experiences and needs.

Gordon still volunteers weekly at the pantry, helping with food pickups, organization, and distribution. He enjoys supporting fellow residents and encouraging gratitude. “I definitely preach being appreciative of what you're getting for free … It's high-quality, natural food,” he shared. “It's become even more important now with food stamps being pulled away.”

After decades of unexpected challenges, Gordon and Thea have found stability, purpose, and peace. “I have been fond of saying that Greccio has saved our lives,” Thea reflected. “Greccio is a wonderful landlord. There's so many things that are offered. It's a real supportive system.”

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Gordon and Thea’s story is just one example of how stable housing can change lives. If you or someone you know is searching for affordable housing in Colorado Springs, Greccio Housing may be able to help. Reach out to our team to learn more about eligibility, availability, and resident resources. Call 719-475-1422 to connect with our office.