Spotlight on Our Consumer Advisory Council
Each quarter, an incredible group of women gather together to share their feedback on the work of Miriam’s House in pursuing our mission to end homelessness. These women are members of our Consumer Advisory Council and share their unique and important perspective as individuals who previously experienced homelessness and received services through Miriam’s House. Their recommendations allow our programs to make a real difference in the lives of those we serve by offering what is needed and approaching each situation with meaningful solutions.
Hear a bit about why they choose to serve as Consumer Advisory Council members!
“I was so ashamed – I had a job, I work hard – so I never thought I would become homeless. I think about the other moms out there who feel scared the way I did and I want to help make services and programs the best they can be for them. I love getting to be a part of that.”
“For me, I used to be ashamed that I was homeless, that we didn’t have the family support we needed to stay housed. But now that I’m on the other side of it, I want to do anything I can to help anyone else that feels how I used to feel. If someone can feel like I see them and relate to them, or even represent them in making things better, that’s important to me.
I remember what it was like to wash up at a gas station or in a laundromat. One of my lowest moments was trying to braid my daughter’s hair while we were staying in the car. I didn’t want her to go to school and feel embarrassed. But we had such a terrible experience when we stayed in a shelter. It made me feel less than human. If I can come here and give my input and help prevent someone else from having an experience like that, I want to use my voice to make a difference.”
“This is a way to share our experiences – what got us into our homeless situation, but more importantly, what worked to get us out! How Miriam’s House helped us, and now how can we give back to Miriam’s House to help improve services and help more people.”
“I don’t know what I would do without Miriam’s House. I never thought I could experience homelessness. Now I know it could happen to anyone. I like being part of this group because my perspective can help make things better for someone else who ends up losing their housing.”
“Sharing our stories is the most important thing we can do here!”
The voices of our Consumer Advisory Council are powerful reminders that lived experience is essential in shaping solutions to homelessness. By bravely sharing their stories and perspectives, these women help Miriam’s House create programs that are more compassionate, effective, and responsive to the real needs of families in crisis. We are deeply grateful for their leadership, wisdom, and courage—they remind us every day that lasting change happens when we listen and learn from those who have walked the path themselves.