About Us
Welcome to the San Diego Shared Housing Collaborative
Where Community Begins at Home
We’re a community-driven initiative dedicated to fostering affordable housing solutions through shared living arrangements. Our mission is to connect individuals seeking housing with compatible housemates and property owners interested in collaborative living options. By promoting inclusivity, sustainability, and mutual support, we’re building stronger communities and addressing the housing challenges in San Diego. Join us in creating a more vibrant and interconnected region where everyone has a place to call home.
Our Mission
At the San Diego Shared Housing Collaborative, we’re not just providing housing; we’re transforming lives. By fostering community connections and mutual support, we’re cultivating resilience and inclusivity. Together, we’re redefining housing, unleashing its power to drive positive transformation. Join us and discover the potential for change in your life.
Our Approach
The San Diego Shared Housing Collaborative was established in recognition of the urgent and pressing need to maximize the use of existing housing stock amidst San Diego’s housing crisis, which is further exacerbated by increasing rates of homelessness. In a region where the rental market is primarily comprised of multi-bedroom units, often unaffordable for many and characterized by high costs and low vacancy rates, there’s a pressing need to leverage every available resource effectively.Understanding the urgent need for innovative solutions, we’ve forged a collaborative initiative aimed at connecting individuals seeking housing with compatible housemates and property owners interested in shared living arrangements. By harnessing the power of shared housing, we maximize the utilization of existing housing resources, providing affordable and sustainable housing options to those in need.
“I would say to anyone nervous about shared housing… never cut yourself short from [an] opportunity that would help and change your life for the better. This program really helps people in their time of need, and they will really go the extra mile for you, which I am really grateful and appreciate.”
– Adam, Shared Housing Participant
“It’s such an amazing opportunity you don’t want to pass by. With all the help and support we received, we were able to find a place [to call] home. They gave us the encouragement to never give up when things seemed to get difficult. I never thought this type of help was out here for people like me. It’s truly a blessing!”
– Dana, Shared Housing Participant
Collaborative Relationships
We proudly collaborate with a diverse network of organizations, from supportive services nonprofits to public agencies, housing providers, and community stakeholders. Together, we leverage our collective resources and expertise to amplify our impact, driving positive change in the housing landscape. Through strategic and collaborative initiatives, we’re breaking down barriers and creating pathways to affordable housing for all.
We’re incredibly grateful to the collaborative’s current contributors:
Meet the Team
Behind the San Diego Shared Housing Collaborative is a dedicated team of professionals passionate about making a difference in the lives of San Diegans. From housing advocates and community organizers to legal experts and social workers, our team brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to our mission. Together, we’re committed to creating innovative solutions and empowering individuals to find housing that meets their needs.
Shared Housing Advisory Committee
We are honored to have the expertise of our advisory committee in shaping the San Diego Shared Housing Collaborative. Comprising a diverse group of professionals and community leaders passionate about addressing housing challenges, our advisory committee plays a pivotal role in guiding the initiative and ensuring we are responsive to the needs of our community. With their invaluable insights and strategic guidance, we’re able to develop innovative solutions, forge meaningful partnerships, and create a more inclusive and equitable housing landscape for all residents of San Diego.
Bruce Carron
Advocates for Solutions Founder and Townspeople Board of Directors Member
Amy Denhart
Director of Funders Together to End Homelessness San Diego
Dennis Larkin
Lived Experience Advisors, HEAL Network, and Townspeople Board of Directors Member
Tracey Wilson
Founder and CEO of Rooted Life
Shawn Whittman
Community Advocate
Shared Housing System Operations Team
While the San Diego Shared Housing Collaborative thrives on participation from organizations across the region, the operation of our system necessitates a committed team. This team comprises employees and contractors of Townspeople, the organization spearheading the initiative. Their dedication and expertise ensure the seamless functioning of our collaborative, facilitating connections, providing assistance, and supporting our mission to address housing challenges in San Diego.
Denise Cabañas
Emergency Housing Coordinator
Stacey Drew
Director of Supportive Services
JeXsi Grey
Shared Housing Locator and Property Owner Liaison
Stephanie Holder
Housing Navigator and Shared Housing Coordinator
Cesar Morales
Housing Stability Specialist
Melissa Peterman
Executive Director
Join Us
Whether you're seeking housing, interested in collaborative living options, or looking to support our mission, we invite you to join us in creating a more equitable and inclusive San Diego. Together, we can build a brighter future where everyone has a place to call home. Explore our website to learn more about the shared housing system and how you can get involved.