Richard LeMieux of Bremerton was Kitsap Mental Health’s Journeys of Recovery award recipient for 2010. He is being recognized by Kitsap Mental Health through its decade-old award because of his recovery from depression and contributions to the community, spokeswoman Rochelle Doan said last week. The award serves as inspiration for current patients, she added.

Many around Kitsap County know of LeMieux story from his book, “Breakfast at Sally’s” on how he overcame homelessness. He received services from Kitsap Mental Health from late 2003 to early 2006 and lived in his car from early 2003 to 2004.

“The award belongs to the people at Kitsap Mental Health who pointed me down the road,” LeMieux said. “They formed a life that now has a special mission.” The mission he refers to is speaking to people about homelessness and helping the needy. He averages about 13 pubic speaking engagements per month on his experiences.

The 67-year-old is finishing a children’s book about his late dog, Willow, that gave him his source of hope, which he expects to be published in the spring. LeMieux is also writing another book about a Bremerton woman’s efforts in helping homeless people. He anticipates this one to be out in six months to a year.

“His compassion, and concern for people who are homeless, it’s inspiring,” said Denise Hughes, supervisor of older adult services at Kitsap Mental Health. Kitsap Mental Health will place a photo display and written story about LeMieux journey in the main lobby next week.