When the Soto-Sanabria family of five arrived at Oasis Family Shelter, they were carrying more than just their belongings. The family carried the weight of uncertainty in a new country. The mother had recently given birth to twins, and with her husband, 19-year-old son, and no extended support system, the family was navigating a new life in the U.S. with no income, no employment, and no access to housing or food assistance.
Furthermore, there were language barriers and cultural barriers. And, most critically, there were no traditional subsidies or programs that they were eligible. Nevertheless, Oasis staff welcomed them with warmth and respect.
The family enrolled in the shelter program on August 16, 2024. Though the family faced many obstacles, they never gave up and neither did the Oasis staff. Together, they engaged in “Problem Solving Conversations,” a supportive dialogue designed to explore existing resources, informal networks, and creative solutions to help families transition out of homelessness.
Within a few months, real progress began to take shape. By January 23, 2025, both the father and the 19-year-old son secured employment at a car wash in Silicon Valley. That job did not just provide income—it opened doors. A coworker introduced the family to a landlord willing to rent to them, despite their lack of housing or credit history.
From there, things moved quickly. The family identified an apartment in Silicon Valley, and the case management team stepped in to help at every stage—completing applications, coordinating directly with the landlord, and supporting the family as they navigated renters’ insurance and move-in logistics. Case managers also submitted an application to San Francisco’s Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing for Problem Solving Move-In Assistance, which helped cover the costs of securing their new home.
In addition, the community came together in other ways. Latino Task Force was able to provide furniture assistance. St. Anthony’s Women and Children’s Services delivered a Welcome Home Packet filled with essentials: sheets, pillows, air mattresses, cleaning supplies, and kitchen basics—everything a family needs to begin again.
Today, the family lives in a safe apartment near their place of employment. They are no longer just surviving—they are building a future in a place they now call home.
This story reminds us that even without the safety nets many rely on, dignity, persistence, and community connection can pave the way forward!