The Command
Amidst the backdrop of the affordable housing crisis, two extraordinary women, Deborah Simmons and Shampria Burroughs, have woven a tale of resilience and compassion that gave birth to veteran owned business Dignity House. Their story is not just about providing affordable housing; it's a testament to the power of empathy, shared struggle, and the unwavering belief that everyone deserves a place to call home.
Our Story
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When Shampria Burroughs was honorably discharged from the United States Navy, she never imagined sleeping in a car with her infant daughter would be a part of her next chapter. But, that’s just where she found herself. Yet, after serving her country for twenty years and retiring, she knew something had to be done to change that for others.
Simultaneously, Deborah Simmons was confronted with the stark truth of widespread homelessness. “My heart just sunk.” Recounts Simmons of the time her brother took her to downtown Fort Worth where she witnessed the struggles of so many individuals without a place to call home. “I had never seen hundreds of [homeless] people on one block.”
Seeds of Dignity:
It was from these shared experiences that the seeds of Dignity House were planted. The name itself speaks volumes – an acknowledgment that every person, regardless of their circumstances, is worthy of honor and respect. Motivated by a desire to create something that homeless individuals could be proud of, Shampria and Deborah, who met at work and became instant friends, embarked on a mission to provide quality affordable housing for returning veterans and those seeking a safe place to call home.
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Walking in Their Clients' Shoes:
Both founders intimately understand the challenges faced by their clients. Shampria, having experienced homelessness herself, knows the profound impact of not having a job, a car, reliable public transport, or even a babysitter. This personal connection allows Dignity House to relate to the struggles of their clients in a way that goes beyond the standard understanding of housing issues.
“Everyone deserves a safe and secure place to call home,” says Simmons. “At Dignity House, we aim to create affordable housing for those that are unable to meet the standard requirements of a conventional lease.” Burroughs says “Our houses allow residents to be part of a community while having the comforts of home.”
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Building Homes, Building Lives:
Dignity House isn't just about putting a roof over heads; it's about creating homes that foster a sense of belonging. The founders understand that dignity extends beyond shelter – it's about feeling safe, clean, and welcomed with open arms. The houses provided by Dignity House are fully furnished, with all utilities included, making them not just a place to stay, but a place to call home.
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A Message of Welcome and Care:
Deborah emphasizes her genuine concern for the individuals Dignity House serves, expressing a commitment to doing whatever it takes to prevent anyone from experiencing homelessness again. Shampria echoes this sentiment, emphasizing that she welcomes everyone with open arms, free from judgment.
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Overcoming Obstacles:
The journey from conception to reality wasn't without its hurdles. The company is self-funded and so the duo foots the bill for securing and furnishing the properties which has made progress slower than they would have liked. Despite these challenges, Dignity House managed to secure its first house in July 2020, marking a significant accomplishment in their quest to provide stable housing for those in need.
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Looking to the Future:
As Dignity House charts its course for the next five years, the vision is ambitious yet deeply rooted in compassion. The goal is to expand to 5-10 houses, catering not only to seniors and those recently incarcerated, as they currently do, but also to single females with children, teenagers aging out of foster care, and the IDD community. The founders envision the possibility of stepping into the licensed realm, offering personal care or assisted living.
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Dignity House is more than a housing initiative; it's a haven of hope forged from the personal struggles of its founders. Shampria Burroughs and Deborah Simmons have not only overcome their own challenges but have also extended a helping hand to those facing similar hardships. In a world where homelessness is an ever-present concern, Dignity House stands tall, offering not just shelter, but dignity, respect, and a pathway to a brighter future.