Housing Story
When I was 19, I saved $800, which I was sure would be enough to keep me comfortable as I got my new life started and moved 320 miles from my small rural hometown in true Nor Cal to San Jose. In just two short months, my bipolar grandfather, whom I had been staying with, evicted me from his small, cramped house. Retreating to Nor Cal was not an option, and I was determined to make it on my own. So, I stayed in San Jose with no friends or family to help me. Even though I’m not from the Bay, I like to say that the Bay made me. I grew up and became an adult through my experiences, and those experiences were largely shaped by housing.
In 7 years, I’ve lived in 9 different places, most of them quiet rooms for rent in nonideal houses with equally nonideal housemates, most of whom were strangers and all of whom were older men. It was rough to say the least. In between places #7 and #8, I was homeless. S I found myself in the late summer of 2020 at rock bottom. I was out of work, my car was repossessed, and my savings were gone.
Luckily, I found my way out of that situation. Because of my own journey, I began organizing in my community and imagining a better world. A world where everyone stays housed, no matter the circumstances. No one should lose their housing for things outside of their control. No one should lose their housing, period! My small fry organizing and passion led me to opportunities I didn’t know existed. I’ve learned a lot on my way to HLC and no one can stop me now. I’m currently HLC’s lead organizer, mostly working in South San Francisco, Daly City, and Millbrae. Anything related to anti-displacement or tenants’ rights usually falls to me. My motto has become, “no one knows everything, but together we know a lot.” That’s how I approach my work. I bring my experience and skills to the table and am eager to learn from those around me. I hope to make positive changes with you and the larger San Mateo community so everyone can stay housed and no one has to experience displacement or homelessness.
Bio:
Prior to joining, Kiana was active in discussions around race equity and public safety in San Jose and participated in the Reimagining Community Safety Advisory Task Force. Outside of work, Kiana loves going on nature walks with her dogs and spending time at the nearest karaoke spot! She is ready to take her advocacy to the next level with HLC! Want to meet with Kiana? Schedule a meeting below!
Contact: ksimmons@hlcsmc.org