Unpacking Mia

To fully understand Mia's story, you have to go back to when she was 13 years old, living with her parents in Upstate New York.

Her father served in the military and was frequently deployed. During one of those deployments, Mia found the courage to share something she had been carrying inside with her mother.

"I knew I was different, like not a boy––you know? I didn't feel that way... I pretty much came out to my mom and said, 'Hey, I don't feel like a boy; I feel like a female, like a girl.' My mom knew what I was talking about."

Mia's mother reassured her that she was brave and that she loved and supported her. But she also asked Mia not to tell her father.

So, Mia kept that part of herself hidden for the next 32 years.

Our Outreach team brings support beyond our four walls—meeting people where they are. 

From providing food, water, and hygiene supplies to connecting individuals with care management, shelter, and housing, every interaction is an opportunity to build trust and create a path toward greater health, housing, and food security.

It starts with connection. It grows through trust. And it’s always centered on individual
needs and choices.
 

Check out what members of our outreach team, Allison and Casey, have to say about the program, it's impact on the community,
and how YOU can get involved!

Outreach Program Manager, Allison (left) & Outreach Case Manager, Casey