Meri’s Story

Meri always said she didn't need anything.

She stayed quiet and small, even on the day I noticed her searching frantically through her bags and crying.

I asked her what was wrong, not really expecting her to answer me.

She hesitated, then said, “I can't find my phone charger.” 

For a woman who is homeless, a phone can be a lifeline. It took a little while to find a charger with the right kind of connector—but we did.

I gave it to her and continued with my day.  

This was months ago, and I hadn't really thought about it until the other day, when Meri pointed at me and loudly announced, "Charger!"  

I must have looked confused.

She clarified, “You helped me that time, with the charger. I remember that. I remember you.” 

Then, casually, she added, “Oh, by the way, I got my housing on Friday.” 

It was a record-scratch moment.  

That cell phone charger had been the first in a series of interactions that allowed Meri to find her way out of homelessness.

When I handed it to her and told her to keep it, she heard, “You matter. You are worth helping.”  

We showed Meri that if she asked for help, someone would respond.

She began working individually with one of our case managers. It took many, many months and a truckload of paperwork, but eventually, we found her a home. 

Your support has made this kind of individualized attention possible—because the path to housing really can begin with one small moment of kindness. 

Thank you for believing in this work, and in our guests.

Warm regards,

Rachel Klein Effland, LICSW
Day Shelter Director