HOUSING News:
SANTA FE — Consuelo’s Place and Homewise are proud to announce a milestone achieved by a former Consuelo’s Place client (“S”) who transitioned from homelessness to homeownership, a powerful example of what collaboration and financially empowering support can accomplish.
Consuelo’s Place provides private, non-congregate shelter and individualized case management for individuals and families transitioning into permanent housing. Homewise provides homebuyer education, financial coaching, and lending programs designed to help families achieve affordable homeownership. Together, the two organizations worked together to coordinate housing stability efforts and long-term financial well-being to help client “S” achieve their dream of homeownership.
The client, identified as “S,” spent seven years grappling with addiction and instability before choosing sobriety in 2019. After escaping domestic violence and seeking safety, S stayed in Santa Fe shelter programs, including Consuelo’s Place, where she earned employment, paid down debt, purchased a car, and advanced from sales associate to store manager.
With stability and support from Consuelo’s Place, S began saving and received encouragement from her case manager. S then engaged with Homewise for homebuyer education, financial coaching, and lending options. Through this collaborative path, S successfully purchased a home in Santa Fe.
S shares, “I went from losing every place I ever had to owning my own home. I could never have done it without the help of Consuelo’s Place and Homewise.” S continues, “Every single person can change their life if they want to. It takes courage, accountability, and support. I’m grateful I found the tools and the people who helped me succeed.”
Johanna Gilligan, President of Homewise, said “The path from crisis to homeownership can be daunting, but with coordinated support, education, and access to financing, it becomes possible. S’s determination—and the partnership between Consuelo’s Place and Homewise—demonstrates what can happen when communities invest in integrated solutions.”
“Stable housing creates the foundation for everything else and when people have safety, support, and a clear path forward, they can achieve incredible things. S’s success is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when communities invest in solutions that work,” said Michele Williams, Executive Director of Consuelo’s Place.
About Consuelo’s Place
Consuelo’s Place offers non-congregate shelter and comprehensive case management for vulnerable individuals and families in Santa Fe. By delivering individualized housing plans, trauma-informed care, and life-stabilizing services, Consuelo’s Place helps clients move from crisis to permanent housing and long-term stability. https://www.consuelosplace.org/
About Homewise
Homewise is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping people become successful homeowners and strengthening neighborhoods. Through education, financial coaching, and lending programs, Homewise supports long-term financial well-being and improved quality of life. www.homewise.org.