Now What? Transitioning from Homelessness to Housed
Our neighbors’ transition from homelessness to housed can be likened to a short but memorable post-credits scene from the popular Pixar film, Finding Nemo. In this scene, we see the fish who were kept in a tank at a dentist office finally achieve their goal of escaping to the ocean—the place they call home. They all cheer when they make it to the ocean, but pretty soon the excitement fades and reality sets in as one of the fish turns to his companions and asks, “Now what…?”
This is similar to the experience of neighbors who now find themselves with a roof over their head but are grappling with the new challenges that come with transitioning from homelessness to housed. For months or even years they’ve been seeking stable housing, and now that they have it, processing through the transition by themselves can be overwhelming. Some challenges they face are learning how to pay bills and cook for themselves. In addition, there is a loneliness they may feel while adjusting to living on their own, separated from the community they formed while experiencing homelessness. That’s when KCB’s Housing Support Group comes into play. The Housing Support Group began in 2019 as a way for previously homeless individuals to meet and support each other. The group is a source of community that discusses any issues as it relates to housing and the well-being of the participants.
Recently, members of the Housing Support Group had the incredible opportunity to encourage others through a panel discussion at Little House, which is a residential substance use treatment program for women and a partner organization of KCB. Ellen, Jessica, and Hope, who have been core members of the Housing Support Group since the beginning and have become good friends, shared their stories with the clients of Little House—many of whom are experiencing housing insecurity themselves. DeeMarie, who is an alum of Little House and received housing services from KCB, also joined the panel. When asked by the audience what they were most grateful for, the panelists shared that having their families back in their lives was the most meaningful. Their lived experiences with recovery, homelessness, relationships, and motherhood offered insight and hope that recovery is possible.
Ultimately, the road to housing is a complex and challenging journey that requires compassion, perseverance, and collaboration. Just like the fish who made it home to the ocean in Finding Nemo, the journey for our neighbors does not end once housing is secured. There are new challenges to face, new obstacles to overcome, and new opportunities for growth and transformation.
As we work to address the issue of homelessness in our communities, we must be mindful of the challenges facing our unhoused neighbors and commit to supporting them on their journey to finding stable and sustainable housing. We must also recognize that housing is just one piece of the puzzle and that addressing the root causes of homelessness requires a multifaceted and holistic approach. By working together and staying committed to this important cause, we can help ensure that everyone has a safe and secure place to live and belong in their community.
You can support our housed neighbors who attend the Housing Support Group by making or purchasing them dinner when they meet. Email volunteer@kcbellflower.org or call/text our Community Engagement Coordinator, Caitlin, at 562-246-9751 to learn more and sign up to bring a dinner!