Congresswoman Laura Richardson and HUD Assistant Secretary Mercedes Márquez Help Celebrate 20 Years of Federal Funding for Affordable Housing in Los Angeles

Shannon – Case Manager
One of Shannon’s most rewarding moments on the job came during a conversation with a resident who reflected on how her life had changed: from worrying about where she would sleep each night to simply deciding what to cook for dinner in her own home. Moments like these fuel Shannon’s passion for supportive housing and case management. 

Priscilla – Case Manager
“What I enjoy most is helping the residents,” Priscilla says. Over the years, she’s watched children grow up and seen people who were once unhoused learn how to be part of a community. Since stepping into her role full-time, Priscilla has guided new residents through the transition from Skid Row into stable housing. “It’s a long process, so I make sure I’m always sitting with them,” she explains. “I want them to feel supported from the very beginning.” 

Ruben – Resident Services Coordinator
At The Palace, Ruben supports transition-age youth, many of whom were formerly in foster care. He finds joy in creating moments where residents can simply be young: celebrating holidays, having fun, and connecting with others. “Our residents didn’t get to enjoy their childhoods, so it’s nice to see them let go and have fun,” he shares. “It’s also great to see those who tend to isolate themselves come out, socialize, and engage with their community.” 

Samuel – Senior Case Manager
As senior case manager at Atlas, Linc’s newest supportive housing community in South Los Angeles, Samuel leads his team with compassion and determination. From welcoming residents who have spent years unhoused to helping them set and achieve personal goals, he finds joy in every milestone. With Atlas nearly full, Samuel is proud of the strong connections his team has built and looks forward to seeing residents continue to thrive.  

A Brighter Future at Springhaven

For Jonathan, moving into Springhaven Apartments in Willowbrook marked a turning point. After years navigating juvenile facilities, group homes, and incarceration the day he saw his apartment for the first time filled him with joy. “It was a truly special moment for me, and I’m grateful for the opportunity,” he reflects. 

Since moving in, Jonathan has embraced growth in every area of life. Therapy and gym sessions help him stay balanced and focused. He’s also pursuing higher education at Diversified College and building his clothing brand, Prayers and Push Ups, which blends his passion for faith and fitness. 

Through on-site programs at Springhaven, Jonathan has gained tools for success and encourages fellow residents to do the same. “I truly believe anything is possible, no matter your background or how you were raised,” he says. “A positive mindset equals positive manifestations.” 

Jonathan hopes his story inspires others to embrace change and remain hopeful, proof that resilience and determination can lead to a brighter future. 

Finding Her Own Place

For years, Michelle’s life was defined by uncertainty. “For a while, I was living in my car near the Santa Monica Pier,” she recalls. Later, she spent more than four years in transitional housing, sharing a house with five other people. “It was tough, but I kept going.” 

Moving into Linc’s HiFi Collective was a turning point. “I was excited because I finally had a place of my own,” she said. “But I was also nervous. I was leaving behind what I knew, the friends I had made.” 

Now, Michelle is grateful for the sense of community and support she’s found. “The building is kept so clean, the staff really listens, and they do a lot for the residents,” she shared. “The support here is probably my favorite thing.” 

Her goals are simple but powerful: to be more active, more social, and one day travel to visit her family. “I’m in therapy, I’m working my steps, and I’m taking it one day at a time,” she said. “That’s all I can do.” 

Neighbors Who Feel Like Family

At Mosaic Gardens at Taylor Terrace in Sacramento, Barbara has found more than an apartment, she’s found a family. When she underwent surgery, neighbors brought her food and checked in often. The students in the community’s youth empowerment program even made her slime to help with her hand therapy exercises after surgery. 

Barbara also appreciates the resources offered at Taylor Terrace. At a CVS Project Health event, she received free screenings, including a glucose check—an important opportunity to stay on top of her health. And when the colder, lonelier months set in, Diana, the resident services coordinator, encouraged her to take on an embroidery project, giving her a creative way to stay engaged. 

Community events are another highlight. From ice cream socials to holiday gatherings, Barbara loves joining in and is known for dressing up with fun glasses for photos. “This place really feels like home,” she says. “The people here care about each other.” 

Ronnie’s Path to Financial Freedom

Through Linc’s Money Smart workshops, Ronnie has gained the confidence and tools to take charge of his finances. With coaching support, he has stayed on track with his credit card payments and is determined to be debt-free by the end of year. This summer, he also created his first savings plan—an important step toward long-term financial stability. Ronnie feels good about his budgeting skills and future goals, and he’s proud of the progress he’s making every day.

A New Start at Willow Way

After months of housing instability, Martha and her daughter, Destiny, finally have a place to call home at Willow Way in El Monte. Before moving in, they often slept in their car or stayed with friends when they could. 

Martha, who spent years working in the medical field, suffered a serious on-the-job injury that required multiple surgeries, the most recent in December 2024. While she was still in the hospital recovering, she received life-changing news: she and Destiny had been approved for an apartment at Willow Way. 

Since settling in, they’ve found more than just safe housing. They’ve found connection, stability, and joy. One of their favorite experiences so far has been a spring social where residents gathered for a painting project. Martha says, “We’re really looking forward to getting to know our neighbors and joining more activities with the Linc team.” 

For now, she’s focused on healing and supporting Destiny’s success in school. One day, she dreams of returning to nursing school but adds, “For now, my focus is on my daughter.”