Cristina was born and raised in San Mateo County, just a few blocks from Kiku Crossing. She is a teacher at a local nonprofit that serves low-income families, a job she is proud of and finds rewarding. “I love being there for my students and having a positive impact on their families.”
She and her own family experienced homelessness for about a year before they moved into their new home at Kiku Crossing. As a single parent who has children with special needs, Cristina is especially glad that she can remain in the community where she has a healthy support network. “It’s peaceful, a really nice place to live.”
“Before, I was working two jobs and was barely making enough money to pay rent. Now I can pay rent, put food on the table, and I’m able to save some money. Life is very different now. That was always my goal: to give my family a stable home.”
“I want to stay in San Mateo–this is where I grew up, this is where I work, and where I give back to my community.”