HSH Success Stories: Shelter

From Shelter to Stability: A Father-Son Journey

After decades of separation and hardship, Francisco and his adult son Marvin have finally found safety and stability — thanks to the compassionate support of case managers, housing providers, and our community.

Marvin was born in San Francisco, but at just six years old, he and his mother moved away. When she passed away four years ago, Marvin, who is disabled, was left homeless and struggling on the streets. For 25 years, Francisco didn’t know where his son was — until a friend shared Marvin’s photo online, sparking an emotional reunion.

In February 2025, Francisco and Marvin moved into Episcopal Community Services’ The Sanctuary shelter, where their case manager, Miriam, helped them access food, clothing, benefits, and critical bilingual support. With guidance from Miriam and the team, Marvin was approved for In-Home Supportive Services, with Francisco as his full-time caregiver — giving them both greater stability.

Four months later, they moved into a permanent, ADA-accessible housing unit. With secure housing, Marvin is now able to get the medical care he needs, and Francisco is preparing to enroll him in a school program for adults with developmental disabilities.

Today, Francisco’s dream is within reach: a home, a welcoming community, and the resources for his son to thrive.

Stories like Francisco and Marvin’s remind us of the power of community support — helping families move from survival to hope for the future. 

From Shelter to Stability: Kelly and Thomas Begin Again

Kelly’s First Step

When Kelly* arrived at the Lower Polk TAY Navigation Center, she carefully picked out a set of baby blue sheets for her bed—her first night of rest in a safe, stable space. At 22, she had experienced more instability than most her age, but she was hopeful. With access to services from Third Street Youth Center & Clinic and Success Centers, she’s focused on her next goal: attending law school in San Francisco.

Thomas’ Long Journey

For Thomas*, shelter was a turning point in a long and difficult road. Raised in Hong Kong and later returning to San Francisco alone for college, he struggled with isolation, depression, and eventually homelessness. After nearly a decade on the streets, he told the Homeless Outreach Team, “I can’t do this anymore.”

Through the City’s shelter system, he found brief reprieve—but instability persisted. He slept in friends' cars when shelter wasn’t available and worked odd jobs while trying to stay in contact with service providers, often losing phones and connections along the way.

Eventually, the San Francisco Homeless Outreach Team helped him access a stabilization room at the Kean Hotel. From there, with continued support, he secured a permanent home at the El Dorado Hotel in 2021. Now housed and connected with employment services, Thomas is rebuilding his life—grateful for the many teams who never gave up on him.

*all names changed to protect client privacy