The Journey Begins
When “Susie”, a 59-year-old African American female, first arrived at Casa San Francisco, she was facing the overwhelming weight of housing instability. Like many who walk through our doors, she needed more than just a bed; she needed a roadmap.
Her journey toward stability was a testament to persistence. Between August 2025 and January 2026, Susie was a resident at Casa on two separate occasions. Over the course of her stays, Susie showed incredible resilience, working hand-in-hand with our team to navigate the complex web of housing applications and support systems.
A Collaborative Effort
Susie’s success wasn’t just luck—it was the result of a dedicated strategy and her own steadfast commitment. Because Susie receives Social Security Disability, we were able to leverage that steady income to prove her eligibility for long-term solutions. Our team didn’t leave a single stone unturned:
- Advocacy: We placed her on the Permanent Supportive Housing list through the Housing Alliance.
- Resourcefulness: We assisted her with multiple applications for affordable housing and secured an approval for Rapid Re-housing.
- The Bridge: When a spot opened up at Interfaith in Dover, we knew it was the perfect transitional step. Even when the timing wasn’t perfect, Casa San Francisco was able to extend her stay for two weeks to ensure she never had to return to the streets while waiting for her bed to open.
A Bright Future
Today, Susie is thriving at Interfaith. She isn’t just “getting by”—she is preparing for the ultimate milestone. This April, Susie will officially move into her very own apartment.
Her story is a beautiful reminder that with the right advocacy, the right resources, and a little bit of patience, the path from a shelter to a home is possible. We are so proud of Susie and honored to have been a part of her journey home.