Found Family: Our Shelter & Housing Programs
Staff working with people experiencing homelessness often function as a crucial source of stability, emotional support and “found family.”
In Share’s shelters and housing programs, these relationships are built through consistent support, trust-building and by meeting basic needs in ways that mirror or replace absent family networks. It can be emotionally challenging. The following two stories show the dedication and compassion of Share’s staff to create a sense of safety and home for others.
Lara*, a resident at Lincoln Place, was an amputee who had faced years of chronic kidney disease.
When she found out she was in kidney failure, she reached out to staff to help her plan a celebration toward end of life. Of utmost importance was her wish to be baptized. And though Share is not a religious organization, staying true to our values of enriching and promoting individuality, we did everything in our power to see her goals achieved.
“It was an honor to be part of her story as she moved into the sunset,” shared JeJe Nzirimu, Housing Achievement & Enrichment Program Director.
Jason, a resident at Share House, suffered a medical episode that landed him in the hospital; he fell into a coma for a week and a half.
Share was listed as emergency contact, but it was not our place to make a decision on whether to withdraw life-sustaining treatment.
But Jason’s story had a happy ending. He awoke from his coma and recovered. Jason returned to Share House, but only briefly; a housing voucher allowed him to move into his own studio apartment in Lincoln Place II.
Brian Osuna, Share House & WHAT Program Manager, shared this: “We were so happy that Jason regained his health. He’s an artistic guy and it’s been a joy to see him embracing his creative side again in his new home.”
*Name changed for anonymity
