Testimonials

What causes homelessness? What helps folks get back into permanent homes? What works to ensure we all can remain housed?

As we listen to those who have experienced homelessness, we must remember that all stories are sacred, but re-telling them can be re-traumatizing for people with lived experience of homelessness. For this reason, those of us who educate, serve, and advocate for people who are unhoused need to provide safe spaces for folks to share their stories.

The only chance we have for truly ending homelessness lies in the expertise and leadership of those who have been impacted most by the experience of homelessness. With so many negative stereotypes of people who experience homelessness, many housed folks look for support in approaching people who are currently or formerly homeless.

Read stories below from NCH advocates who have experienced homelessness.

Kelvin Lassiter

Kelvin was raised in a middle class family in the suburbs of Washington, DC. Life challenged him early. The death of his mother sent Kelvin

Donald Whitehead

Donald Hugh Whitehead Jr. is recognized as a leading expert on homelessness, having served as the Executive Director of the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the

Michelle Bush

L. Michelle Bush recently joined the National Coalition for the Homeless as grant manager. Her previous affiliation with the organization was as a formerly homeless