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About Us

Impact

Our dedicated and passionate team works to change lives and to create healthier, more vibrant communities.

The Right Support Changes Lives

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After a difficult separation from her significant other, Diamante and her children were facing homelessness and struggling to find a safe environment. For months they relied on the generosity of friends and family, a time she described as “extremely difficult,” filled with uncertainty and emotional strain. When Diamante began working with the team at the San Diego Housing Administration Program, she was connected to vital community resources and guided through the process of obtaining supportive housing. Diamante has recently achieved a significant milestone in her journey as she and her children have moved into their new home while she focuses on building a new future supported by her resilience and determination.

-Diamante, 2025 San Diego Housing Administration Program Client

photo of Gus and Nareida

Once a successful business owner, Gus faced housing instability after a difficult divorce in which he gave up all his assets to support his family. Living in an unclean and emotionally draining facility, he struggled to find stability until he connected with the San Diego Housing Administration program. The team helped Gus transition to a more supportive environment that allowed him to begin his path to healing. While volunteering at a local food bank, Gus met his future wife Nareida, and together they rebuilt their lives—focusing on their health and planning for the future. With the support of the program, Gus has been transformed and now thrives with renewed purpose, joy, and a commitment to giving back to his community.

-Gus, 2025 San Diego Housing Administration Program Client

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After navigating domestic violence and serious health challenges, Rossi was evicted when her apartment complex was converted into business units. Forced to live in her car, she connected with the San Diego Housing Administration program for support. Rossi focused on her goals: finding a safe home and building a future. With the program’s help, she secured her own apartment, launched a small business, and found steady employment. “I’m very grateful for everything that’s been done to help me,” Rossi shared.

-Rossi, 2025 San Diego Housing Administration Program Client

It started with just a night or two without shelter. Then a week. Then a month. Eventually, for Michael, those nights turned into nearly five years of living on the streets—some spent on sidewalks, others in a tent. But everything began to change when he connected with the team at the San Diego Housing Administration Program. With their support, Michael set clear goals for himself—attending medical appointments, locating a permanent home, and to reconnect with friends he hadn’t seen in over two decades. Michael’s persistence in the program paid off and he soon moved into his own home for the first time in over five years. “I never thought this was something I could look forward to. I can finally reconnect with friends I haven’t seen in over 20 years. I would never have made it this far without the help of Equitable (Social Solutions). I can’t thank them enough for their help. In this world, there are people who really need help, and this program helps. I am so lucky to be here,” he shared.

-Michael, 2025 San Diego Housing Administration Program Client

Alana was relying heavily on her daughters to help with her monthly rent and necessities. Living on a fixed income, she often struggled to cover her monthly expenses, which created an overwhelming sense of guilt and emotional strain. In working with the team at the San Diego Housing Administration, Alana was able to secure rent subsidy assistance to help her gain a sense of autonomy while lessening the burden on her family. Additionally, the team supports her with regular check-in calls offering to address supportive service and resource needs. When asked about her experience in working with the team, Alana shared, “This program has made a big impact on my life… it has given me so much peace of mind. I’m incredibly grateful.” Focused on the future, Alana is now working on personal budgeting to gain the total independence she has always desired.

-Alana, 2025 San Diego Housing Administration Program Client

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Once struggling with homelessness, addiction, and navigating the challenges of probation, Aaron made the courageous decision to change his life—and he’s done just that. In engaging with the team at the San Diego Housing Administration Program, Aaron was provided with educational resources, emotional support, consistent case management, and long-term housing. This new-found stability allowed Aaron the opportunity to pursue higher education while receiving continued encouragement that empowered him to stay focused and motivated every step of the way. Driven by a deep desire to give back, Aaron is currently enrolled in school to become an Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) counselor. Fully committed to this path, he is making steady progress toward his goal of helping others through recovery. Aaron’s story is one of resilience, dedication, and hope. It stands as a powerful reminder that with the right support and personal resolve, lasting change is not only possible—it’s achievable.

-Aaron, 2025 San Diego Housing Administration Program Client

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Originally from Erie, PA, Sharleen and her husband faced homelessness after their house was condemned, prompting a cross-country move to Oregon that ended in betrayal and hardship. For months, they lived in a tent in Florence until the local outreach team referred them to the Equitable Navigation Center, where Sharleen found shelter and support. After separating from a toxic relationship, she began a healing journey, gaining confidence, community, and vital case management assistance. “The (team) is really wonderful, I wouldn’t have been able to do it without them. If it wasn’t for my case manager putting in the work… I wouldn’t have made it,” Sharleen shared. The Center provided temporary housing, navigation of social service needs, and options for a permanent residence—ultimately securing her a spot in a low-income senior apartment. Now 70, Sharleen is embracing independence and stability, grateful for a second chance at peace and safety. When asked about life moving forward, Sharleen declared, “I’m going to put myself first this time around.”

-Sharleen, 2025 Oregon Lane County Housing Program Client

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A survivor of domestic violence, Penni had become homeless while attempting to manage severe and chronic physical and mental health issues. With the goals of resolving overdue rent payments, securing permanent housing, and improving her credit score, she began working with the team at the San Diego Housing Administration program. Penni was soon approved for an apartment and moved in with new household items provided by the program. With a secure home, she no longer worries about where she will spend the night. When asked about working with the Equitable team, Penni shared, “Thank you so much for your help. I appreciate all your work and support—I can’t thank you enough.”

-Penni, 2025 San Diego Housing Administration Program Client

A survivor of domestic violence and facing significant health issues, Suzanna was living in her car–the only refuge she had–before working with the team at the San Diego Housing Administration Program. Determined to find a stable and peaceful home, she began working with Equitable Case Manager, Luis. Though often anxious and overwhelmed, Suzanna slowly began regaining a sense of hope as they worked together towards her goals. Today, Suzanna is thriving in her new apartment, living with a renewed sense of happiness and security. Reflecting on her experience in working with the team, she simply shared, “Thank you so much, I can’t thank you enough.”

-Suzanna, 2025 San Diego Housing Administration Program Client

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After suffering a gunshot wound to the head, James was living with a traumatic brain injury turning simple tasks difficult. In and out of drug rehabilitation programs, he struggled with overcoming addiction and setting a course to independence. Working with a recovery professional, James embraced the local church community and entered a sober living facility while gaining a strong support system. He also connected with the San Diego Housing Administration Program team who provided the necessary guidance and resources to locate a permanent residence. With housing secured, James began focusing on his career and mending once distant familiar relationships. He no longer feels trapped in a cycle of hopelessness and relapse and has rediscovered joy, purpose, and, most importantly, himself. “I am so thankful for the Equitable Program. Had I not received this support, I may have never changed. They were always there to encourage and connect me with resources. It has changed my life,” James commented.

-James, 2025 San Diego Housing Administration Program Client

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After falling on hard times, Wayne became tied up in a web of court appearances and paperwork, all while facing the challenge of paying off significant rental arrears to avoid eviction. In working closely with the Oregon Lane County Housing All-In Program team, he was able to resolve overdue rental payments and sign a new lease agreement, avoiding eviction and putting him on a clean path forward. “Two months ago, I received help from Lane County Housing All-In. My Housing Navigator… she saved me. She returned every phone call and made me feel important and cared for. I can’t thank her enough.”

-Wayne, 2025 Oregon Lane County Housing All-In Program Client

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Kalane moved to California seeking a fresh start, but after a severe accident that resulted in a traumatic brain injury, she soon felt she was beginning from scratch, entirely on her own. Fortunately, she found support through the team at the San Diego Housing Administration program. “I am truly grateful for this program. I am so blown away by this being a reality,” Kalane shared. The team has supported her with ongoing encouragement and rental assistance so she can focus on recovery while securing employment and regaining independence. “Kalane has continued to demonstrate her determination to be a better version of herself by being fully dedicated to her recovery journey. Although she may have some challenging days, she never forgets to acknowledge the progress she has made,” remarked an Equitable team member.

-Kalane, 2025 San Diego Housing Administration Program Client

Coping with the tragic loss of his son, facing the uncertainty of homelessness for he and his companion, and losing his job due to an injury, William was facing a very difficult period of his life. The combination of grief, financial instability, and physical pain made each day a struggle. Determined to prioritize his mental and physical well-being, William began working with the team at Equitable where he was assisted with the critical assistance to begin his journey of healing. With renewed motivation, as well as the support and collaborative effort of the Equitable team, he was able to stay focused on his path forward, knowing he wasn’t alone in the process… “This program has been a blessing; a weight off our shoulders has been lifted,” William shared, grateful for the guidance that helped him regain stability and hope for the future.

-William, 2025 San Diego Housing Administration Program Client

Between couch surfing and temporarily living with a friend, Norma always felt like a burden on others, longing to find a place to call her own, expressing that she wanted to find a secure, affordable space where she could finally feel at ease. Norma soon moved into her own studio apartment while working diligently alongside the program’s Housing Locator and the team at Equitable’s San Diego Housing Administration Program. Reflecting on her journey, Norma shared her immense happiness in having a stable and beautiful place to call home, recalling the unwavering dedication of the team.

-Norma, 2025 San Diego Housing Administration Program Client

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Tracy vividly recalls the challenges of living on the street. “Not knowing where you could sleep, hiding your belongings behind bushes to avoid theft, but then having them stolen anyway. Even finding a bathroom was a struggle. It’s no way to live.” In working with the team at the San Diego Housing Administration Program, Tracy set her priorities to secure stable housing and reconnect with her daughter – a deeply personal goal she is determined to achieve. Over time, the tension that once controlled Tracy slowly subsided. “It’s like the weight of the world is finally falling off her shoulders,” her case manager observed. Now housed, optimistic, and full of determination, Tracy has her sights set on a promising future, thanks to the support she received, “I don’t know what I would have done without the assistance.”

-Tracy, 2025 San Diego Housing Administration Program Client

photo of Keith wearing a white undershirt with red button down, opened at the chest. Wearing red baseball cap sitting on a beige leather chair

Living in a dilapidated pull-behind trailer wasn’t Keith’s ideal living situation despite having done it for years. Recognizing the need for change, Nick, a team member from the San Diego Housing Administration Program, worked diligently to help Keith find the perfect fit. Through their efforts, Keith transitioned to a comfortable and affordable senior living facility. This move not only removed the physical burden of his old home but also gave Keith the freedom to focus on the future. “I’m happy to finally have a space that feels like home. I’m excited to have a beautiful place to call my own and I’m now looking forward to other possibilities.”

-Keith, 2024 San Diego Housing Administration Program Client

photo or Mark in purple shirt with red, white, and blue stripes looking over his left shoulder

At the age of 60, Mark was homeless and spending his days on a busy street corner, relying on the kindness of strangers passing by. With nowhere to go and nobody turn to, he was met by a San Diego Housing Administration Program team member determined to help Mark gain independence. In working with the Equitable team, he was able to secure housing and gain the necessary support tailored to his needs. “Mark’s health is improving, his spirits are high, and he is rediscovering the sense of independence he feared he had lost forever. His smile reflects the brighter future he is building,” remarked an Equitable team member.

-Mark, 2024 San Diego Housing Administration Program Client

photo of a smiling Olivia

When Olivia began working with the Equitable team at the Oregon Lane County Housing All-In Program, she faced complex challenges related to mental health. Despite these obstacles, her unwavering courage, self-advocacy, and determination quickly stood out. With a network of support, Olivia discovered an environment where she could focus on achieving her goals of stable housing and meaningful employment. Through personalized case management, the team helped Olivia build stability and work toward independence. Today, thanks to her inspiring resilience, Olivia is housed, employed, and focusing on a promising future filled with new opportunities.

-Olivia, 2024 Oregon Lane County Housing All-In Program Client

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For the first time in eight years, Tamira has a place to call home. When she began working with the team at the San Diego Regional Homeless Assistance Program, her journey had been marked by a long battle with chronic health issues that impacted her ability to work and maintain stable housing. Now living in a cozy apartment and with renewed optimism, Tamira plans to focus on her health and looks forward to enrolling in courses to pursue a Computer Science Certification. With the assistance of the Equitable Social Solutions team and partners, she has gained a fresh start and a sense of hope for the future.

-Tamira, 2024 San Diego Regional Homeless Assistance Program Client

Before Adam began working with the San Diego Housing Administration, he was constantly moving from one friend’s couch to another, quickly losing hope in finding a permanent place of his own. In working with Equitable, Adam shared that the consistent support the program provided allowed him to keep hope alive as he found the perfect fit in a new living space. “Adam’s relief and joy were evident when he first stepped into his new home, grateful for a stable place he could finally call his own,” the team noted. Now, Adam no longer wonders where he’ll sleep each night and is currently exploring career opportunities, optimistic about his future.

-Adam, 2024 San Diego Housing Administration Program Client

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Yesenia was sleeping in her car, behind buildings, and on sidewalks with her dog… an experience she described as “going through it.” Feeling stuck and hopeless, she began working with the San Diego Housing Administration program. Once she secured housing, she expressed to the Equitable team that her life was “back to normal” and credited their support for her success in the program. Now feeling safe and secure, she is looking for work and enjoys welcoming her grandchildren to her home for quality family time.

-Yesenia, 2024 San Diego Housing Administration Program Client

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Six years ago, Michael made the life-changing decision to check into a sober living facility. After facing addiction for several years and never quite having a place to call home, Michael realized the impact addiction was having on his mental health and stayed steadfast on his journey to sobriety. Acceptance into the Shallow Rental Subsidy Program allowed Michael to secure stable housing so he could begin focusing on himself, his continued sobriety, and building stronger relationships with his family. He now volunteers at AA meetings and serves as a mentor. Michael finds fulfillment in serving others, knowing just how transformative recovery can be.

-Michael, 2024 San Diego Housing Administration Program Client

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Living between her car and a park, Tricia and her Dachshund had been searching for relief from an unhealthy living situation. In connecting with the Riverside County Homeless Housing, Assistance, and Prevention (HHAP) Program team, Tricia secured comfortable housing while gaining assistance with her security deposit and three months of rental assistance. “(The team at Equitable) went out of their way to meet with me when I needed help and came to my rescue to assist me. These ladies are very professional women who are compassionate, respectful, kind-hearted and very sweet. Thank you so much.”

-Tricia, 2024 Riverside County Homeless Housing, Assistance, and Prevention Program Client

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Elaheh was living in her car or moving from shelter to shelter, struggling to find stability as she needed to prioritize her health in a battle with liver cancer. In connecting with Equitable, she was able to secure housing quickly and remain close to her primary care provider for treatment. Elaheh has expressed that she is now hopeful and no longer feels alone. Having a place she can call her own, Elaheh believes she can rest comfortably while focusing on improving her health.

-Elaheh, 2024 San Diego Housing Administration Program Client

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After a debilitating car accident left Lacherl unable to continue her nursing career, she faced the dual challenges of financial instability and a profound sense of insecurity. Months of battling homelessness followed until she connected with the San Diego Housing Administration Program. Now with secure housing, Lacherl is turning her attention toward the future. She’s determined to obtain reliable transportation, return to school, and pursue a new career where she can once again dedicate herself to helping others.

-Lacherl, 2024 San Diego Housing Administration Program Client

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Berach had been challenged with a profound period of homelessness and was looking for support after his father’s passing. He found his second chance by working with the team at the Regional Homeless Assistance Program in San Diego. With chronic homelessness in his family, Berach’s support came from the program and a network of partners to assist him with obtaining a driver’s license and reliable vehicle, employment, housing, and most inspiring of all, confidence. “Before joining the program, I struggled every day to find somewhere to sleep, eat, and be warm. The program has absolutely changed my life in the biggest way possible. I can now be truly happy and make my dreams and life happen!”

-Berach, 2023 San Diego Regional Homeless Assistance Client

Client Amanda

Amanda struggled with addiction for most of her adult life. Starting a family was her motivation to get clean, and Amanda welcomed a beautiful daughter. When her husband died of substance-use related complications in 2019, Amanda lost her apartment and became homeless. Her daughter was able to stay with family, but Amanda was on the streets alone. In the beginning of 2021, Amanda got COVID-19, and the County of San Diego connected her with the COVID-19 Hotel Sheltering Program. She quarantined safely through the support of our staff. “They saved my life,” Amanda said. The team worked with Amanda to ensure she had temporary housing until she was able to find an apartment. She now has her own home, for the very first time. “I have been through so much in my life, but I’m now sober and so proud of how far I’ve come.

– Amanda, 2021 San Diego COVID-19 Hotel Sheltering Program

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Without stable housing, Iliya often slept in vehicles or outside. The Hotels to Housing program team connected him with a safe place to stay at a hotel. “During the program I had somewhere to shower, a place to eat and I had the chance to meet people with different stories,” Iliya shared. Then the team worked with him to find his own apartment: “The stability of having a roof over my head allows me to feel good about myself,” he said.

– 2022 Dane County, WI Hotels to Housing Client

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“Before entering the program, I was homeless and sleeping on the streets. I was trying to get away from bad influences. I felt very overwhelmed and I didn’t think I would ever get out of that situation because I didn’t have any support. I have a job now and with my new apartment I feel like I can accomplish everything. I feel like there are opportunities waiting for me. I am bettering myself very day so I never go back to where I was.”

– 2022 San Diego Regional Homeless Assistance Client

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“My life was very desolate. I was living in the riverbed of San Diego. It was very difficult to take care of basic needs. I was pretty down. My Housing Navigator was the most beneficial part of the program for me. I have a place to call my own…I get to buckle down and re-enter the workforce. I am more than grateful to my Housing Navigator and the program for helping me get back on my feet and get a place to call home.”

– 2022 San Diego Regional Homeless Assistance Client

Photo of clients Kenneth and Karissa

Karissa was recently released from jail and had no place to go, bouncing from couch to couch. Karissa and her partner Kenny were experiencing a host of challenges stemming from legal concerns, addiction and housing instability. The pair was referred to the Hotels to Housing program. Karissa and Kenny were first connected with a safe place to stay at a hotel site. They immediately began working with the team on more permanent housing options. Now, Karissa and Kenny have been clean for a year and have moved into a “real” home. “We feel we are both more responsible and living a more healthy and safe life now. We remind each other daily of how fortunate we are to have all this guidance and assistance since we entered into this program,” Karissa shared.

– 2023 Dane County, WI Hotels to Housing Client

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“I never would have seen myself here eight months ago. Living on the street was difficult and planning showers and food and shelter for the dog and my partner was always a stress. The first day in the program, I saw myself in the motel room mirror and was embarrassed at what I saw and decided this first day would be the change. I had the chance to choose where I wanted to work and make money for the first time in over 20 years. Joining the program has made me realize I can actually have goals again.”
– 2021 San Diego Regional Homeless Assistance Client