The proof of Shelter House, Inc.’s effective services is in the stories of those we serve.  Here are two inspirational stories of families who have benefitted from the expertise of Shelter House, Inc. staff and services: (names have been changed to protect the identity of these families).

The Campos family came to the Katherine K. Hanley family shelter when the family breadwinner lost his job and they were unable to pay rent. During their brief two month stay, the family was able to secure employment, save enough money for a security deposit, begin GED classes and learn some financial management skills.  By meeting with their family Case Manager and Housing Resource Coordinator on a regular basis, the Campos family gained the necessary skills to maintain a household on their own.  The Campos family was able to successfully move into an affordable basement apartment with the money they saved from their new income. The Campos family continues to stay in contact with their case manager in order to ensure they have the necessary resources to maintain their housing.

Ms. Smith came to Shelter House with nothing but some clothes and her two kids, looking for a roof over their heads.  She was immediately placed in our After Hours Family Crisis Center, waiting for a shelter opening.  Within a few weeks Ms. Smith entered The Katherine K. Hanley Family Shelter in Fairfax.  Upon entering the shelter, her Case Manager immediately began working with her on obtaining a full-time job, enrolling her kids in school and setting goals towards providing a safe and stable environment for her family.  Today Ms. Smith is in Shelter House’s Transitional Housing Program where she has a place to call home for two years while working full-time and attending school for Phlebotomy. “My mom taught me how to survive and be a hard worker and never depend on anyone,” says Ms. Smith, “I would say today she taught me the basics.  None of her teachings was enough to prepare me for becoming homeless.”