Collaborative Housing - Placement Success Story

Change for Good: Ruby's Story

At SHARE!, we believe in helping people help themselves. Founded over 30 years ago by self-help support group attendees, our housing program creates something many people experiencing street homelessness lack: a support system, inside a home.

Our placement team takes thousands of calls per month from people in need across Los Angeles. Two-thirds of the people who exit our housing program move on to market-rate housing or housing with family.

Our approach is peer-led — people who have been there themselves, helping the next person through. That approach was on display last week when placement team member Pam helped Ruby (name changed to protect privacy).

Ruby's first calls didn't go well — her frustration came through loudly. Pam saw her intent to get housing and nudged her to come into the Peer Center, attend a support group, and get access to more resources. Once she came in person, Pam sat down with her and talked honestly about what was standing between her and an interview with a homeowner. Ruby recognized it, and she decided to change her behavior.

A week later, Ruby had housing in a beautiful home. She pays all of her own rent and is a valued member of that community. Over a month in, she's still thriving. Ruby made the change for good.

Interested in learning more about SHARE!'s Collaborative Housing? Visit our Collaborative Housing webpage or email housing@shareselfhelp.org.