In this episode, we continue our series exploring programs that support people experiencing homelessness by highlighting the innovative work of Miracle Messages. We’re joined by Mary Carl, CEO of Miracle Messages, and Astara Pearson, Vice President of the Miracle Messages Advisory Council. Astara shares her personal journey of reconnecting with her family through the organization's Phone Buddy program.

Miracle Messages helps rebuild social support networks by fostering meaningful connections through its Phone Buddy program, reuniting families and loved ones, and providing basic income support that promotes agency, dignity, and empowerment for people experiencing homelessness.

Share your perspective in the comments below. Email us your feedback and questions at thebellsihear@mentorapromise.org

The Bells I Hear was created by Mentor A Promise.

Mentor A Promise is a nonprofit organization based in New York City dedicated to supporting youths and families residing in shelters. Their mission is to break the cycle of homelessness by providing social-emotional learning, academic support, and mentorship services. They work closely with students experiencing housing instability, offering individualized career planning and vocational guidance. Additionally, Mentor A Promise collaborates with partners to equip students with the necessary tools for success, extending support even after they transition out of temporary housing.

Follow us online!

Website: mentorapromise.org

Instagram: @mentorapromise

LinkedIn: Mentor A Promise

#homelessness #homelessnesscrisis #nyc

In this episode, we continue our series spotlighting innovative programs that help people experiencing homelessness by speaking with Jennifer Mitchell, President and CEO of The Doe Fund, and Rahdel Sharbaan, a graduate of the organization's flagship Ready, Willing & Able program. Rahdel now serves as Associate Director of The Doe Fund's Gates Avenue Transitional Residence, where he mentors and supports participants on their own paths to stability.

The DOE fund has a nearly 40-year history of helping New Yorkers in need from providing affordable and supportive housing to transforming lives through training and work opportunities. The DOE Fund builds relationships by giving a hand up, not a hand out.

Share your perspective in the comments below. Email us your feedback and questions at thebellsihear@mentorapromise.org

The Bells I Hear was created by Mentor A Promise.

Mentor A Promise is a nonprofit organization based in New York City dedicated to supporting youths and families residing in shelters. Their mission is to break the cycle of homelessness by providing social-emotional learning, academic support, and mentorship services. They work closely with students experiencing housing instability, offering individualized career planning and vocational guidance. Additionally, Mentor A Promise collaborates with partners to equip students with the necessary tools for success, extending support even after they transition out of temporary housing.

Follow us online!

Website: mentorapromise.org

Instagram: @mentorapromise

LinkedIn: Mentor A Promise

#homelessness #homelessnesscrisis #nyc

In this episode, we sit down with Cupid Alexander, Chief of the City of Oakland, California's Office of Homeless Solutions, for an in-depth conversation about homelessness, housing insecurity, affordable housing, and housing justice. Together, we explore the complex, interconnected factors driving today's housing crisis and why lasting solutions require more than simply increasing housing supply.

Cupid shares insights into how prevention, community development, cross-sector collaboration, and long-term policy strategies can create stronger, more equitable housing systems. From addressing housing affordability to supporting people experiencing homelessness, this conversation examines what it takes to build sustainable solutions that benefit individuals, families, and communities alike.

Whether you're interested in affordable housing policy, homelessness solutions, urban planning, or social impact, this episode offers valuable perspectives on one of today's most urgent public policy challenges.

Share your perspective in the comments below. Email us your feedback and questions at thebellsihear@mentorapromise.org

The Bells I Hear was created by Mentor A Promise.

Mentor A Promise is a nonprofit organization based in New York City dedicated to supporting youths and families residing in shelters. Their mission is to break the cycle of homelessness by providing social-emotional learning, academic support, and mentorship services. They work closely with students experiencing housing instability, offering individualized career planning and vocational guidance. Additionally, Mentor A Promise collaborates with partners to equip students with the necessary tools for success, extending support even after they transition out of temporary housing.

Follow us online!

Website: mentorapromise.org

Instagram: @mentorapromise

LinkedIn: Mentor A Promise

#homelessness #homelessnesscrisis #nyc