July Mission Moment: Hospitality & Authenticity

Last week, I sat down with Xiomara Reyes to learn more about what makes the Providence House Women’s Justice Program so impactful. From our residence in Prospect-Lefferts Gardens, Ms. Reyes engages women in one-on-one and group counseling to help them overcome trauma and build their capacity for living independently in the community. According to Xiomara, “We make hospitality a pillar of our program and that is what sets us apart. We make people feel at home here in a very authentic way, and the residents really respond to that. For many of the women I see, this is the first time in their life that some takes a genuine interest in their wellbeing. We are invested in their success, and when they succeed, I genuinely feel joy.”

Hospitality and authenticity are powerful tools for helping people address life challenges, particularly when mental health is involved. Xiomara recalled one resident who came to her scared and confused. She was 26 years old and for the first time in her life she found herself overwhelmed with symptoms of depression. There was a deep stigma surrounding mental health in her family, and she was afraid seek help.

Understanding the sensitive nature of this work, Xiomara did everything she could to make this resident feel comfortable and slowly build the level of trust that was needed for her to open up. Eventually, Xiomara was able to link this resident to Clubhouse, a partner organization that provides empowering psychoeducation and community connection. It was here that she met other women who had similar struggles. Knowing that she was not alone and that others felt the way she did was a turning point in her life. This small spark helped lift the feelings of isolation and loneliness that surrounded her and set her on a path to healing.

This resident has since graduated from our program. She is moving into permanent supportive housing where she will live independently in the community. She has also become a peer mentor, sharing what she has learned with others, and serving as a beacon of hope for women struggling with mental health challenges.