Our Impact
Who We Serve
Currently Serving Counties
At Housing for Health, we're driven by a commitment to creating lasting change in the lives of individuals and families experiencing housing insecurity. Our impact is measured not just in numbers, but in the stories of hope and resilience that emerge from the work we do in collaboration with our partners.
92%
clients receiving tenancy services maintained permanent housing
39%
members have increased their income while in the Day Habilitation program
2412
members served in 2024
Client Stories
Virginia Guevara
For eight years, Virginia lived without a home, navigating the daily uncertainty of where she would sleep, what she would eat, and how she would survive. Before that, she had spent a decade caring for her father, a proud veteran, in the home they shared. When he passed away, she lost not only her dad but also her stability and sense of purpose. Grief overwhelmed her, and without a support system, she found herself on the streets. That changed when Virginia connected with Jamboree Housing Corporation. At Clara Vista, a Jamboree community, she found more than just a place to live—she found people who saw her, believed in her, and helped her rebuild. With the support of onsite services, she regained her footing and began to rediscover her passion for caregiving. Today, Virginia works as a caretaker at Iluma, another Jamboree property, where she finds fulfillment in supporting others, just as she once supported her father. Transportation has also played a key role in her journey, and her heartfelt appreciation video for OC Bus—highlighting how it helps her get to and from work—won a community contest. Virginia’s story is a testament to the power of stable housing, compassionate support, and second chances. Today, she’s not just surviving—she’s thriving, giving back, and showing others that hope is always within reach.
Ada's success story
By the time Ada was 77 years old, she had already been experiencing homelessness for four years. During this time, she faced the overwhelming challenge of managing more than 16 chronic health conditions. Despite her age and serious medical issues, Ada remained determined to find a safe and stable place to call home.
That determination brought her to Mercy House, where their dedicated team offered the support and guidance she needed. Access to shelter was vital allowing her to attend medical appointments regularly while having a safe place to rest and recover. This stability was crucial in addressing her health needs and improving her overall well-being.
Ada’s perseverance paid off. With help from the CalAIM Housing Deposit program—which covered application fees, holding costs, and deposit assistance—she was finally able to move into permanent housing.
To make the transition even smoother, the Mercy House team went the extra mile by providing shuttle service to help her move and get settled.
Today, Ada is focused on healing and enjoying her independence. She continues to attend medical appointments, cooks meals for herself and her neighbors, and is embracing the comfort and peace of having a place to call her own.
Rachel's success story
After a cross-country move, Rachel’s life was turned upside down when her husband suddenly left, leaving her alone with their two children (15 and 13). With a disability preventing her from working full-time, she couldn’t keep up with the bills, and they were eventually evicted. With nowhere else to turn, Rachel made the difficult journey back to Orange County, hoping for a fresh start.
For a while, she and her children stayed with friends, but soon they found themselves pushing their belongings in a wagon with nowhere to go. That’s when she found Mercy House. With an open bed and a caring team ready to help, Rachel and her family finally had a safe place to stay.
With guidance and support from our Housing Navigators, Rachel was able to clear her eviction record, find a part-time job, and save for the future. Mercy House assisted her in a rapid rehousing match and today, Rachel and her children have a place to call their own in Orange County.
“We are all trying to figure out daily life. The absolute chaos and trauma of homelessness is behind us. We’re home now and trying to get back to being a family.”
Jerry's success story
Five years ago, Jerry came to Mercy House after a painful divorce left him homeless and alone. Determined to rebuild, he entered Emmanuel Residence with a clear vision for a better future. With the support of his case manager and the Mercy House community, Jerry faced his depression and committed to change.
“Emmanuel Residence was therapeutic for me,” Jerry shared. “We worked through things together, shared meals and our lives. It was a community—it was home.”
As Jerry made progress, he moved into one of Mercy House’s permanent housing locations. He saw it as another step toward independence—not the final step. He set goals, stayed in school, and saved money.
A year later, Jerry was ready. He moved into his own apartment in Tustin—happy, healthy, and thriving.
D.L.'s success story
D.L.'s journey from homelessness to stability showcases resilience and success. After leaving an unsafe living situation, he spent nearly three months on the streets before seeking help at Be Well's Sobering Center. Through their CRP program and CalOptima Housing Navigation Services, D.L. secured virtual employment and a safe room rental. With assistance from CalOptima's Housing Deposit funds, he moved into his new home, supported by a landlord who prioritizes sobriety. D.L's story highlights the impact of supportive services in empowering individuals to rebuild their lives independently.