Advocacy By Those With Lived Experience

HEAL Network

Homeless-Experienced Advocacy and Leadership

Transforming systems through the power of our stories. We bring the voices of individuals with lived experience into the center of the conversation to emphasize humanity and drive meaningful policy change.

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Who We Are

Those closest to the problem are closest to the solution.

Homelessness is not just a policy issue; it is a human reality. The HEAL Network brings the voices of individuals with lived experience into the center of the conversation.

"We don't just share stories for sympathy; we share expertise for strategy."

Founded in 2019, we are organizing to move public policies toward solutions that work—because we know what happens when they don't.

Connect

Stay Informed.

Join the HEAL Network for bi-monthly updates and community forums.

e.g. policy updates, events, or speaking opportunities

Our Policy Pillars

The HEAL Network’s advocacy is built on five core pillars designed to create a more equitable and just housing system for all San Diegans.

01 Resources & Funding

Securing permanent state and local revenue to fund essential housing initiatives.

02 Land Use & Growth

Promoting fair housing and transit-oriented development to build inclusive communities.

03 Reducing Barriers

Streamlining processing and reducing bureaucratic hurdles to lower housing costs.

04 Resident Protections

Stronger eviction protections and anti-displacement measures for vulnerable tenants.

05 Preventing Homelessness

Prioritizing "Housing First" models and robust supportive services for those in need.

Want to help shape our specific 2026 agenda? Join the monthly meetings above.
Get Involved

Bi-Monthly Forums

We meet every other month to organize, learn, and strategize. These gatherings are rotating partnerships with affordable housing communities across San Diego, bringing the work directly to the residents.

Join us to connect with others who share your commitment to housing justice.

Next Meeting
March 12th, 2026
5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
Hybrid: In-Person & Zoom
Join via Zoom →
Upcoming 2026 Dates
  • May 14th
  • July 9th
  • Sept 10th
  • Nov 12th
*Locations for future dates TBD

Advocacy Toolkit

Resources and tools curated to empower your voice and strengthen our collective impact.

For Members

Member Essentials

Updated for 2026
For Advocacy

Action Center

  • How to Give Public Comment
  • City Council Contact Sheet
  • Storytelling Worksheets
  • Policy Fact Sheets
Coming Late April
Recruitment

2026 General Membership Flyer

Next Meeting: Thursday, March 12th @ 5:30 PM
📄 Download Flyer

Who We Are

Rooted in Experience.
Led by Community.

The HEAL Network is governed by those with the expertise that matters most: lived experience. Our leadership structure ensures accountability, representation, and community power.

Margo Velez

2026 HEAL Network Chair
2026 Strategy Circle Leaders
Kuni Stearns
Miriam Perez
Kaitlin McQuaid