.jpg)
Empowerment Through Representation at HSH
By Temisha Jacques, Caseworker, Home Suite Hope
As a Black caseworker at Home Suite Hope, I have the privilege of working with families experiencing homelessness and guiding them toward self-sufficiency. Every day, I am reminded of the importance of representation, especially when it comes to the work we do in this field. For me, the concept of empowerment through visibility is personal — it’s about showing that individuals from all walks of life, especially those who share similar backgrounds, can thrive and make a difference.
Representation matters because it sends a powerful message: You belong here. You are capable. Your story is important. When individuals see someone who looks like them, who understands their struggles, and who shares similar lived experiences, it gives them the belief that they, too, can overcome the challenges they face. It helps reinforce the idea that they have the right to take up space in this field, and beyond. I am a single mother, and I know firsthand the many challenges that come with juggling the responsibilities of raising children while navigating a world that doesn’t always seem built for you. I share these experiences with the families I serve. I don’t just offer professional support; I offer understanding. I offer empathy. And, perhaps most importantly, I offer the guidance I wish I had received earlier in my own journey. I aspire to be the role model and source of strength that I never had — someone who can show families that success, stability, and hope are within reach.
In my role, I strive to empower families by demonstrating they are worthy of support, they deserve the resources that can help them rebuild their lives, and that there is always hope, no matter how difficult the journey may seem. I believe my visibility as a Black caseworker provides a unique opportunity to encourage families to believe in themselves. My presence alone can help challenge the notion that those who look like me are not supposed to be in positions of power and support. Instead, I show them that we not only belong, but we are also leaders, mentors, and advocates for change.
Through this work, I continue to be reminded of the importance of Black History Month — not just as a celebration of history, but as a reminder of our present power and potential. It’s an opportunity to reflect on how far we’ve come and recognize how much further we can go when we lift each other up. Representation isn’t just about being seen; it’s about being heard, being valued, and being celebrated.
As we honor Black History Month, let’s also commit to creating spaces where everyone — regardless of their background — feels seen, heard, and empowered to achieve greatness. For me, this is more than just a mission; it’s a promise to the families I work with, to my community, and to myself.
Together, we rise.
Supporting Black Families at HSH
By Jovelle Reid, Program Coordinator, HSH
As a Black woman and in my role as a Program Coordinator at Home Suite Hope, my work goes beyond just providing services, case management and coordinating workshops. My role is primarily about connecting with the mothers I support and their families in a way that feels authentic, real and empowering. I know what it means to navigate systems that may feel overwhelming, and I am personally dedicated to establishing a space where the Black families I serve always feel seen, heard and supported!
I make it a priority to ensure the care I provide maintains an environment that feels secure and welcoming for participants. I want them to see that their challenges are real and that they are also resilient and worthy of every opportunity to prosper and thrive within and outside of HSH! Growing up in a Caribbean household, I know firsthand the ways that mental health and family issues can be seen as taboo, and this is the reality for many Caribbean and Black families. Because of this, I want to be a part of dismantling generational trauma and patterns of mental health stigma, and I aim to promote a safe space for Black families and mothers to open up about their struggles. Another way I am committed to demonstrating my care for Black families is through cultural sensitivity which is something I value deeply.
At HSH, we are very aware Black families often face specific challenges, and we aim to meet those needs in thoughtful and intentional ways. A small but meaningful example of this is how staff and I work to ensure community donations of hair and makeup products reflect the diversity of Black hair textures and skin tones. It might seem like a minor thing, but I know how important it is for Black families to have access to products that work for them, especially in a space where they might not feel like their needs are always prioritized.
Beyond physical supports, I aim to encourage the families I work with to strive for their goals and aspirations, no matter how big or small. Whether it’s developing a passion for their future career, finding a hobby they enjoy, or simply establishing a sense of peace and stability in their lives, I am here to help them reveal these and remind them they deserve it all. I was told years ago by someone I look to as a mentor, “You deserve to be in every space you walk into. Do not minimize yourself for anyone and always shine through and push forward.” This is a message I hope to instill in our participants and especially our Black mothers who may be unsure of their place in the world and afraid to occupy space.
In everything I do at HSH, I carry the belief that the single mothers I support and the Black single mothers I work with are incredibly resilient and are deserving of every chance to thrive. We must commit to creating a space where they feel they have the resources, respect, and encouragement to flourish. I want them to know that they are never alone on this journey!