At Bells Refuge, we provide safe, affordable, and long-term housing solutions for, seniors, veterans, and individuals with disabilities. Our focus is on creating stable homes where everyone can thrive with dignity and support for a brighter future.
Born in Greensboro, NC, on October 26, 1970. Fast-forward to August 1, 1985: at 14 years of age, life changed drastically for me, my 9-month-old son, and my 33-year-old mother.
Domestic violence uprooted our lives, taking us from a place called home to homelessness in Brooklyn, New York, the Big Apple. My mother had endured abuse in her marriage for years, and she finally chose to leave. I was proud of her for taking that step.
The family welcomed us and helped us as long as they could. In February 1986, we found ourselves in the Catherine Street Shelter located in the heart of Chinatown. The building was an old school (PS 114) that housed families, mainly mothers with children. Catherine Street Shelter had only been operating since 1985, and it went through decades of suicides and gang activities. We were housed there from February 1986 through April 1986. We were then moved to another shelter located in the Brooklyn Fulton area for another 3 months, April through July 1986.
We were then placed in the Conca D’oro Motel located at 2232 Forest Avenue in the Mariner Harbor of Staten Island, NY. The Conca D’oro Motel was a notorious “quick sheets” motel transitioning into a crowded long-term housing site for indigent families and the homeless.
There we lived for 18 months, July 1986- December 1987. We moved to a 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom apartment on the 5th floor in the South Bronx, on Reverend James A. Polite Avenue.
I learned the importance of having a stable place to call home at a young age. Experiencing homelessness opened my eyes and shaped the path I’m on today as a housing provider.
That’s why I’ve opened my doors over the years to support others by offering a safe place to live. I’ve been there myself, and I understand firsthand what it feels like.
At Bells Refuge, we believe everyone deserves a safe place to call home. We’re on a mission to provide affordable housing solutions for seniors, veterans, and individuals with disabilities. Your support can help us make this vision a reality. Whether you choose to apply, donate, or volunteer, together we can create stronger, safer communities. Join us today and help provide stability and hope for those in need
At Bells Refuge, our mission is to provide more than just housing — we create strong foundations for seniors, veterans, and individuals with disabilities. We are dedicated to offering safe, affordable, and long-term housing solutions that empower our residents to build a better, more secure future. We understand the unique needs of each individual we serve, ensuring they receive not just shelter, but a supportive environment where they can thrive. Our focus is on stability, comfort, and community, providing a home where everyone can feel valued, respected, and ready for a brighter tomorrow.