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The Power of Community Partnerships

One Starfish Foundation
6.17.26

There was a time when this neighbor had a place to call her own. Known for her generosity and willingness to help others, she often put people before herself. Over time, those choices contributed to circumstances that led to the loss of her housing and stability. Like many, her path into homelessness was not defined by a single moment, but by a series of challenges that compounded over time.

When this neighbor arrived at Degagé Ministries, she was not just in need of resources—she needed connection, consistency, and someone who would walk alongside her. It was there that she met Marney Davies, our Women’s Outreach & Support Coordinator at One Starfish Foundation. That introduction became the beginning of something much more than support—it became the foundation of trust.

Through the partnership between Degagé Ministries and One Starfish Foundation, our neighbor was surrounded by a network of care that worked together rather than in isolation. This collaboration allowed her to access coordinated, relationship-based support that met her where she was and helped her move forward step by step.

Our neighbor and Marney began meeting regularly, creating a rhythm of consistency that became essential for progress. Whether it was connecting at Degagé, attending Crossroads Bible Outreach on Tuesdays, or participating in a weekly art class led by Marney, these moments built more than routine—they built trust, confidence, and a sense of belonging.

It was in these steady, shared spaces that real progress began to take shape. With encouragement and support, she gathered the necessary documentation, navigated complex systems, and completed the steps required for housing approval. Each small milestone mattered, and each one was made possible through consistent care and encouragement.

Our neighbor has moved into a senior housing apartment—a significant and well-earned step toward stability. More than just a place to live, this new home represents safety, dignity, and a fresh start.

This journey is a powerful reminder that lasting change does not happen overnight. It grows through relationships, through trust built over time, and through community partnerships like Degagé and One Starfish Foundation.  

Stories like this reflect what is possible when we commit to walking alongside people, one life at a time. 

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