Shay Seals experienced homelessness with her young daughter

Mental Health Download: Exploring Mental Illness, Suicide, Homelessness and Incarceration

Today, we're talking with Shay Seals, Service Coordinator for MHAOK’s Long Term Supportive Housing program in Oklahoma City.

Shay recently celebrated her one-year anniversary with the Association after two bouts of homelessness and the realization that she wanted a more meaningful career.

She and her young daughter spent too many months living out of her car (before a willful surrender), shelters and motels when she had the money. Shay’s story highlights the importance of financial management education and how so many people are only a paycheck or two away from homelessness

Her story also shows how honest self-reflection, hard work, and most importantly, a solid support system, is integral to rebuilding your life.

Her demeanor is grounding, her outlook inspiring.

We really appreciate how Shay uses her experiences for the benefit of others – both in her openness here and in the work she does every day. If you see someone experiencing homelessness, you let us know via the Street Outreach and Rapid Response page of our website: www.mhaok.org.