The Sophia Way

Imagine not having a home ... carrying your belongings everywhere, every day. Imagine not knowing when or where you will get your next meal … searching for a safe place to sleep at night …

Homelessness is often brutal, debilitating, and traumatic. Without consistent and ongoing support, the physical, mental, and emotional stressors are overwhelming. Women are particularly at high-risk being vulnerable to physical and sexual assault.

The Sophia Way was started by the late Helen Leuzzi with a vision to be a place of hope for women. She understood that women have unique challenges and need a place to feel safe and cared for. Realizing that there was no shelter on the Eastside for women, Helen galvanized cities, civic groups, organizations, and the faith community to fill this gap. Finally, in December 2008, on a freezing winter night, The Sophia Way opened its doors to shelter eight women.

In its 13-year journey, the organization has supported more than 5,000 women, offering a place to rest, resources to help them with their needs, and finding affordable housing when possible.

Women come from different environments and have different needs. Some need help with debt reduction or documentation for benefits. Some are fleeing an abusive partner. Others may want work attire for a job interview. Whatever the reason or the need, case managers and staff support them using the six guiding principles of trauma-informed care approach – Safety, Trustworthiness & Transparency, Peer Support, Collaboration & Mutuality, Empowerment Voice & Choice, and Cultural, Historical, & Gender Issues. This approach helps reduce further trauma and retraumatization, emphasizes healing, and encourages women to develop stronger coping skills.

Donna came to our Day Center when she heard about the resources and support offered. After losing her job, she lived in her car and was constantly fearful of being assaulted. A case manager found her a bed at the Extended-Stay Shelter. It was a haven for Donna. “I had a bed and a place to shower every day. I could do my laundry and feel clean.” These are things many of us take for granted, but it makes a big difference to those experiencing homelessness.

It takes a village, and we do not do our work alone. Supporting the women is a generous community that donates financial gifts to help operate shelters that are safe, welcoming, and properly staffed 24/7, provides home-cooked meals to nourish women, and donates everyday items to give women dignity and comfort. We are so grateful for a compassionate community. Learn more about how you can get involved at https://sophiaway.org/get-involved/