Rachael and her 1-year-old daughter, Rosalie, were rejected from numerous shelters. After what Rachael described as calling “all the shelters in California top to bottom”, some could not accept the additional liability the family’s needs posed, leaving Rachael and Rosalie without viable options for safe housing.
Rosalie was born with a monoallelic mutation of the KCNQ2 gene, resulting in epileptic neuropathy and developmental regression. Rachael had to leave her job to care for her daughter, leading to unstable housing when family support faltered.
Given her reliance on a feeding tube, Rosalie requires specific medical equipment, including an oxygen compressor, an outlet for her feeding pump, and access to a refrigerator to ensure continuous access to Rosalie’s formula.
Rachael reached Raphael House and during their hospital stay, a social worker collaborated closely with Raphael House staff to ensure Rosalie’s needs would be accommodated for their impending arrival. Upon discharge from the hospital, Rachael and Rosalie were transported directly to Raphael House, where they found comfort and assistance in the Residential Shelter.
Raphael House has been a sanctuary for families like Rachael’s for over 52 years. On average, 90% of the families we serve in our Residential Shelter achieve stable housing, and 93% maintain that stability long-term through our Bridge Program.
Our Residential Shelter Program provides families with a safe place to live, nutritious meals, and life-changing support customized to their unique needs. We don’t just provide a bed on which to sleep; we offer a comprehensive support system that helps families break free from the cycle of homelessness. “You’re teaching us pivotal skills. Family counseling with staff helped us gain the tools to have functional, healthy relationships with each other and other people.” Rachael reflected.
We invite you to support families like Rachael’s this spring. Your donation, no matter the size, can truly transform lives. Together, let’s make a difference in our community.
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