During the coldest months of the year, Mercedes was living in a tent, walking over an hour to her late-night food service job each day.

But after a year of homelessness, Mercedes was finally able to find a home at Good Sam.

With support from our team, a volunteer mentor, and her own determination, Mercedes set goals, learned to budget, and completed our matched savings program.

Then, a miracle of community compassion: neighbors who had lovingly renovated an apartment for years approached Good Sam, offering it to our participants at an extremely affordable rate, fully furnished and ready to welcome someone home. Mercedes was the first to move in.

Today, Mercedes walks from her very own apartment to work each morning, spreading joy to the seniors she cares for and reminding everyone around her to look on the bright side. With the tools and confidence she’s gained, she’s built the foundation for lasting stability.

“I believe that there is hope for my future and that there is hope for anyone out there who is struggling,” she shared, words that reflect in the joy-filled smile on her face.

Her journey is proof that when community comes together in compassion for our neighbors, lives are transformed.