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Stories that Demand Change

Housing insecurity affects millions, and behind every number is a real person with a powerful story. Many individuals who have experienced homelessness, are currently unhoused, living in shelters, or struggling to afford rent have courageously shared their lived experiences in support of the Housing Now rally.

As we ask: What causes homelessness? What helps people return to permanent housing? What works to ensure everyone can remain housed?—we must center the voices of those most impacted.

Every story is sacred. But retelling these stories can be re-traumatizing, which is why it’s essential for educators, service providers, and advocates to create safe, respectful spaces for people to share on their own terms. The only true path to ending homelessness lies in the expertise, leadership, and experiences of those who have lived it.

With so many harmful stereotypes about people experiencing homelessness, hearing directly from those impacted is a powerful way to break down stigma and build understanding. These stories remind us that homelessness is not an identity—it is a crisis that demands urgent, systemic change.

We are deeply grateful to everyone who has shared their story so far. Your voices are helping shift the narrative, inspire action, and demand housing as a basic human right.

Read the stories below from NCH advocates with lived experience—and if you’d like to share your own, we welcome your voice.

Click to request a Speaker with Lived ExperienceClick to share your story