02 Oct Walking Alongside
Since its inception, The Sophia Way has embraced the ethos of ‘walking alongside’ women experiencing homelessness. Celebrating 15 years of service, we continue to offer personalized, compassionate support that empowers women to rebuild their lives. Together, we create a community where every woman feels valued and finds hope for a better future.
Homelessness is often portrayed as a temporary setback, a hurdle to be overcome with the right resources. However, for the women who live through it, the experience is far more complex. It’s a journey filled with fear, uncertainty, and a constant search for safety and stability.
“Being homeless is not fun. It is very depressing, lonely, cold, dangerous, and sad. I know it’s not my fault to be in the state I am now. I need a job and income, and I know I will have my own place one day,” said one woman who walked into The Sophia Way’s Day Center seeking help.
For many women, the journey to stability is filled with challenges and setbacks. Each story is unique, shaped by circumstances that often feel overwhelming and isolating. Edith, for example, arrived at Helen’s Place as a victim of elder abuse and neglect, struggling to navigate the healthcare system alone. Her case manager worked tirelessly to assess her needs and arrange vital appointments. Thanks to that support, Edith visited a doctor for the first time in years, received hearing aids and glasses, and is now scheduled for a denture fitting. Her quality of life has drastically improved, and Edith couldn’t be happier.
At The Sophia Way, we understand that the path to homelessness can stem from a variety of factors—limited income, health challenges, debt, and trauma. Since its inception, The Sophia Way has embraced the ethos of ‘walking alongside’ women experiencing homelessness. This philosophy, championed by our late founder Helen Leuzzi, emphasizes that our mission is not just to provide immediate shelter but to create a comprehensive continuum of care that supports women on their journey from homelessness to stability.
This continuum of care begins with providing a safe, welcoming environment – one where women are treated with dignity, compassion, and respect.
“I’ve been on the street. I’ve lived in the back of a van that was loaned to me for a while. Different shelters turned me away, so it was unbelievable to have a place to sleep and a hot meal. The resources here opened the door for me to get back on my feet.” — Judy
“When women first arrive at the shelter, they need safety, comfort, and support, especially after likely having slept in uninhabitable conditions and enduring the trauma of homelessness,” explains Lani Saunders, Housing Case Manager at The Sophia Way. “We first focus on meeting their basic needs—providing food, water, clothing, and hygiene items. Establishing and nurturing trust is crucial, as it helps women feel supported. The shelter is now their home, and we work to make it feel as comfortable as possible.”
Working through trauma is often the first step in a woman’s housing journey. As Alyssa Feipel, another Housing Case Manager, notes, “Addressing the trauma that clients have faced can build the confidence and motivation needed to start working toward their goals.”
At The Sophia Way, a team of 30 dedicated staff members – including program managers, shelter leads, and case managers – provide personalized care that addresses each woman’s unique challenges. For some, the immediate priority may be a safe place to sleep. For others, the focus could be on legal issues, healthcare, or employment. For many, the most urgent need is finding stable housing, a goal made challenging by limited options.
Lucy Lincicome, Housing Case Manager, assists women in identifying suitable housing options based on their individual circumstances. “There’s no one-size-fits-all solution,” she explains. “It’s essential to assess each woman’s situation to ensure they’re placed in housing that supports long-term stability.” Lucy uses the Housing Stability Plan, a tool that helps identify a client’s strengths and barriers. “Once we understand the barriers, we work together to develop a plan of action, leveraging the woman’s strengths to overcome challenges and move toward stable housing.”
Walking alongside women means providing both support and empowerment. “It’s about delivering inclusive services that empower women to lead their journey while offering support and guidance tailored to their individual goals,” says Lani. Adds Alyssa, “It’s their life, their choices, and their path. Our role is to assist them in pursuing what they deem important, empowering them to navigate their journey on their terms.”
A powerful example of this empowerment is illustrated in the words of one client:
“When I came to The Sophia Way, I was beaten down. I didn’t think anything would work. Now, I have the strength to go on. Even if things don’t go my way, I can pick up the pieces and never look back. They gave me that.” — Claire
In addition to personalized support, The Sophia Way shelters offer activities and workshops that foster connection and build essential life skills. From financial literacy to job readiness, these workshops equip women with the tools they need long after they leave the shelter. The comprehensive support also includes legal assistance, employment help, healthcare services, and housing referrals, addressing the complex web of issues contributing to homelessness.
“After 15 years on the streets, I’ve been in housing for 16 months. The Sophia Way staff have blessed my life in so many ways. I’m so grateful for their love and compassion.” — Aysha
The commitment to walking alongside women extends beyond staff at The Sophia Way; a compassionate and engaged community of donors and volunteers plays a vital role in providing meals and warm clothing, and more importantly, fostering a sense of dignity and empowerment by supporting women to make choices that best suit their individual needs. This collective effort forms a circle of care that ensures each woman feels seen, valued, and supported through a holistic approach.
“The resources to meet our personal needs and the community donations are such a blessing. The staff are always inclusive, uplifting, and work so hard. Most go above and beyond—they’re super fine folks!” — Rita
Through personalized care, compassionate support, and a steadfast commitment to healing, The Sophia Way walks alongside women, empowering them to not just survive but thrive. We invite you to join that journey alongside us.
We are celebrating 15 years of service with a Resilience & Renewal celebration on December 7, 2024
Take a journey through our 15-year history, relive the highlights, and look ahead to the future. Learn how The Sophia Way plans to scale up and provide more women on the Eastside a place to rest and heal on their path to stability. Sign up now and join us in this joyous celebration!
To protect the privacy of the women we serve, we use assumed names and stock images.