Unique L.A. home offers young adults a chance to thrive and break free from survival mode

An abode situated in the heart of Los Angeles has transformed into a sanctuary for young individuals united by a shared ordeal: homelessness.

The Dunamis House, located on Evergreen Avenue just two blocks from Cesar Chavez Boulevard, presents an array of complimentary services: furnished accommodations, freshly prepared meals, hairdressing services, educational workshops covering topics like financial literacy, fitness sessions, and more. With the option to work at the in-house café, residents can also earn an income.

“There is absolutely nothing like this. It’s utterly unique,” expressed Sherbert Diaz, a Dunamis resident who relocated to the dwelling in December. “It granted me the chance to discover my true self and to break free from survival mode.”

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Beyond a bed: What this L.A. home offers young adults experiencing homelessness

April 25, 2024

Providing refuge to young adults from the instability of homelessness is at the core of the Los Angeles Room & Board (LAR&B), the non-profit organization behind Dunamis House and three other residences in East Hollywood, West Adams, and Westwood, all serving a similar purpose.

Formed in 2020 by Sam Prater, LAR&B draws inspiration from his 14 years in university student housing and his own encounter with homelessness as a young adult.

“Providing a secure place to rest is just one facet of our mission,” shared Prater. “The real essence lies in the effort to transform lives, and through our services and dedicated team, that transformation materializes.”

The surge in homelessness in Los Angeles is evident. The annual survey from the county’s Homeless Services Authority discovered over 6,000 children ages 0 to 17 and nearly 4,000 young adults ages 18 to 24 grappling with homelessness. However, these tallies are often approximations with advocates concurring that homelessness is underreported.

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