#United States #San Francisco #Homelessness #Supportive Housing #DISH

DISH: Leading the Charge Against Homelessness in San Francisco

Since its establishment in 2006, Delivering Innovation in Supportive Housing (DISH) has made significant strides in addressing homelessness in San Francisco. Transitioning to an independent nonprofit on July 1, 2025, DISH is now poised to amplify its efforts, aiming to support more individuals grappling with complex challenges of homelessness.

The urgent need for DISH's services is underscored by alarming statistics; over 8,323 individuals faced homelessness on any given night, representing a 7% increase compared to the previous year. Annually, 20,000 individuals in San Francisco seek various homelessness services. DISH operates nine properties, offering housing for over 800 individuals, showcasing a remarkable 97% retention rate. This validates the effectiveness of their approach to Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH).

Every year, DISH welcomes hundreds into its fold and provides essential support, often surpassing basic housing needs. Their comprehensive outreach includes training for thirty housing organizations and creating new avenues for residents to learn life-saving education through peer-led overdose prevention teams.

Co-CEO and co-founder Lauren Hall emphasizes the organization's core philosophy: _“Everyone deserves a home. DISH provides a place where people can recover from trauma and rebuild their lives with dignity.”_ DISH not only provides housing but also fosters a community that prioritizes holistic wellness, creative expression, and the development of life skills.

Adding depth to this mission, co-CEO Rahwa Meharena mentions, _“We believe housing is a platform for a meaningful and joyful life—not just a way out of homelessness, but a way forward.”_ Their commitment extends to addressing systemic inequalities affecting marginalized populations, particularly Black, Indigenous, and other communities of color.

With an experienced staff—many of whom share lived experiences—DISH ensures the safety and stability of their properties round the clock. Their support system includes case management and healthcare assistance from partner agencies, which enhances the residents' return to stability and self-sufficiency.

Key Initiatives and Innovations

DISH has implemented several pioneering strategies in supportive housing:

1. Supportive Housing Advocate Resident Project (SHARP): This initiative trains residents to actively engage in policymaking, positioning them as experts on issues related to overcoming homelessness.
2. Street to Home: This pilot program is designed to expedite housing placements for unsheltered individuals, streamlining processes to ensure vulnerable individuals receive housing promptly.
3. Narcan Availability: DISH was the first San Francisco property management entity to offer Narcan at the front desk 24/7, fortifying its response to the ongoing opioid crisis.
4. Brave Button Project: This initiative enhances overdose prevention strategies through resident-led leadership and training programs.
5. Restorative Justice Framework: DISH is redefining property management by moving toward restorative practices that address community healing instead of punitive measures.

About DISH

At its core, DISH is committed to ensuring that _“everyone deserves a home.”_ By focusing on delivering high-quality, permanent supportive housing to those who have faced long-term homelessness or severe trauma, DISH plays a crucial role not only in individual recovery but also in strengthening community ties. Through innovative programs and a focus on compassionate care, DISH aims to be a beacon of hope in the ongoing fight against homelessness in San Francisco.