By Taylor, Keys to Change Street Outreach Specialist
“On November 4, 2026, a single mother walked into the Welcome Center facing an incredibly difficult situation, living in her car, completely out of gas. She had no resources, nowhere to go, and three young children depending on her: her five-year-old twin daughters and her seven-year-old son.
Despite the uncertainty and challenges ahead, she remained determined to find stability and a better future for her family.
That’s where teamwork, compassion, and community partnerships came together.
Upon meeting the family, Josh and I immediately began coordinating with Andrew from City of Phoenix (shoutout!) who helped make the connection to UMOM. Andrew was able to secure the family an intake appointment for the following day, giving them a real opportunity for a fresh start.
Knowing that the family needed somewhere safe to stay until their appointment, Aris Foundation stepped up to generously fund a hotel room for the night, ensuring that mom and children had a place to rest.
The Welcome Center team jumped in to provide a gas card and food to help get her through this transition and ensure she had what she needed to make it to her next step.
The following day, the family successfully made it to UMOM – one step closer to home.”
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Pictured: Taylor, Makena, and Josh from Keys to Change Street Outreach
Thank you, Taylor, for sharing this story! We’ll stay posted on the family’s progress.
Shoutout to the street outreach team for interrupting a leadership meeting to solve the problem quickly. Your advocacy and quick thinking embody the Key Values at Keys to Change!
More about our work: Keys to Change manages Key Campus, featuring a dozen service providers focusing on the barriers faced by single adults 18+ experiencing homelessness. The Brian Garcia Welcome Center acts as the “front door” to Key Campsu and is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, welcoming anyone – anyone – experiencing or at-risk of homelessness. When we connect with a family with minor children, we activate our collaborative network to quickly refer them to the best resources available to address their particular needs.
