PEU Story Project: Strength That Opens Doors

Behind every housing placement at the Home Support Unit (HSU) is a network of people working together to make it possible. From HSU specialists coordinating placements to real estate partners, brokers, and property owners opening doors to new opportunities, this work is built on collaboration and trust.

Meet Yvonne

At the center of this story is Yvonne Girela White, a specialist in PEU’s Home Support Unit. Yvonne works closely with brokers and rental property owners across New York City to help connect available apartments with eligible New Yorkers who are ready to move from shelter into stable housing. Her work requires building strong relationships, understanding the real estate process, and helping partners navigate housing programs like CityFHEPS, FHEPS, SOTA, and Section 8.

Yvonne is deeply committed to this work, and her life experiences shape how she shows up every day. She brings resilience, empathy, and a deep understanding of the challenges New Yorkers face. Like many New Yorkers, she has faced moments of instability and profound loss, and she has also experienced the power of community stepping in to help when it mattered most. Those experiences are what drive her dedication to helping others today.

A Partner Perspective

Yvonne’s work wouldn’t be possible without the partnerships she builds with brokers and property owners across the city. One of those partners is Debbie Menjivar, a licensed real estate agent who has worked closely with Yvonne to help New Yorkers secure safe, stable housing.

In this companion video, Debbie shares how her life experiences led her to this work, what it’s like partnering with the Home Support Unit, and the impact these collaborations have on families finding homes.

Work With the Home Support Unit

If you are a rental property owner, broker, or property manager with available units, PEU’s Home Support Unit can help you fill them.

Contact The Home Support Unit