We’re celebrating the guests who have moved into new homes in 2025! Seven families and two RCC guests have transitioned from their temporary shelter at RITI into their own homes.
RITI staff are honored to accompany guests along this journey. The day they hold their key in hand is one of the biggest accomplishments we can celebrate.
Program Directors, Guest Advocates, and our Housing Stabilization Coordinator work closely with guests as they navigate the many twists and turns of the path from homelessness to housing.
We asked these staff for the Top Three Keys that help guests move from shelter at RITI to their new home. Here’s what they had to say…
3. TRANSPORTATION
Lack of reliable transportation is a major obstacle for many experiencing homelessness. Without it, employment, education, childcare, healthcare, and ultimately securing stable housing is impossible. Thanks to our donors, RITI guests have access to bus passes and transportation funds to ensure they can attend important appointments, home viewings, and housing inspections.
2. PARTICIPATION
Active participation from staff and guests in RITI’s Housing Stabilization process is crucial to success. Program Directors and Guest Advocates provide case management to walk through challenges one step at a time with guests. Both the Family Inn and Recuperative Care Center have a limited number of shelter beds available. This limit is intentional to allow the case loads to remain small enough to truly focus on each guest’s needs and next steps individually. It’s the secret we’re happy to share and what we think makes RITI stand out in offering holy hospitality and genuine care in our service. With open, consistent communication between staff and guests and time set aside for focusing on the task at hand, guests are more likely to be able to reach their goals.
1. SUPPORT
Adrienne Walker, RITI’s Housing Stabilization Coordinator, said “All anybody ever needs is someone to believe in them.” Family Inn and Recuperative Care staff echoed with words like encouragement and empathy. The Number One Key that makes the difference is for someone to take the time to truly listen, follow-up, and provide encouragement for the often long and difficult journey.
Most RITI guests come to us from living on the streets or in places like tents, abandoned buildings, or cars. Some have recently been staying with family and are no longer able to stay due to domestic violence, family conflicts, or the family member’s inability to continue to provide support.
Now they have a new story. Their keys unlock apartments, houses, and tiny homes. Many in Recuperative Care reconnect with family members who are willing to provide support as guests move from RITI into their new homes or to assisted living and rehab facilities.
Many of these guests return to RITI, but not in need of services. They call and visit to stay connected to the community they’ve found under our roof, even from the comfort and safety of their own.
Nonprofits nationwide are feeling the stress of US funding shifts.
RITI is committed to continuing this important work regardless of potential changes.
You can help.