Our Story

About Habayit Home Away From Home

A Brooklyn nonprofit built on the belief that every family deserves stability, dignity, and a true place to call home.

Our Story

Born from Community,
Driven by Purpose

Habayit Home Away From Home was founded in 2015 after our founder, Elliot Shelby, witnessed firsthand the crisis of family housing instability sweeping through Brooklyn's neighborhoods. Too many families were falling through the cracks — caught between eligibility gaps in city shelter systems and a lack of safe, dignified temporary options.

The name "Habayit" — Hebrew for "The Home" — was chosen deliberately. It signals our conviction that home is not just a structure, but a sense of belonging, safety, and community. For families displaced by fire, domestic violence, economic hardship, or crisis, Habayit serves as that home away from home.

Over the past eight years, we have grown from a small grassroots initiative serving a handful of Brooklyn families to a recognized community organization with formal programs, trained staff, and deep partnerships across New York City's social services ecosystem.

2015

Founded in Brooklyn

Elliot Shelby launches Habayit as an informal network of host families and community volunteers.

2017

501(c)(3) Status Granted

Recognized as a tax-exempt nonprofit; first formal staff members hired; first program office opened.

2019

Children's Stability Program Launched

Dedicated program ensures children remain enrolled and supported in school during family transitions.

2022

1,000 Families Milestone

Reached our 1,000th family served — a moment of profound gratitude and renewed commitment.

Today

Growing Our Impact

Continuing to expand services and deepen our community partnerships across the five boroughs.

Foundation

Mission, Vision & Values

Everything we do flows from a clear sense of purpose — and a deep commitment to the people we serve.

Our Mission

To provide safe, temporary housing and wrap-around support services to families in crisis — ensuring that no family in Brooklyn faces housing instability without a caring community to lean on.

Our Vision

A New York where every family has the stability, resources, and community connection they need to thrive — where housing insecurity is a temporary chapter, not a permanent condition.

Our Promise

We will always show up — with compassion, without judgment, and with practical help. Every family that comes to us will be seen, heard, and supported on their journey toward stability.

Dignity & Respect

Every person who walks through our doors is treated with unconditional dignity. We never make families feel like burdens — they are our purpose.

Community Partnership

We believe in the power of collective action. Our strongest work happens when we partner deeply with local agencies, faith communities, and neighbors.

Empowerment Over Charity

Our goal isn't to create dependency but to build capacity. We equip families with tools, knowledge, and connections to stand on their own.

Accountability & Transparency

We are stewards of community trust and donor resources. We hold ourselves to the highest standards of integrity, measurement, and honest communication.

The People Behind the Work

Our Leadership Team

Dedicated professionals and community leaders who give their best every day for Brooklyn's families.

E

Elliot Shelby

Executive Director & Founder

A Brooklyn native and longtime community advocate, Elliot founded Habayit after two decades working in social services. He brings deep expertise in housing policy, nonprofit leadership, and community organizing.

R

Rachel Okonkwo

Director of Programs

Rachel oversees all of Habayit's service programs, bringing 15 years of experience in family services, case management, and trauma-informed care. She is passionate about holistic, family-centered approaches.

D

Daniel Reyes

Community Outreach Manager

Daniel leads Habayit's partnerships, volunteer programs, and neighborhood engagement initiatives. A fluent Spanish-English bilingual, he ensures our services reach Brooklyn's diverse communities.

S

Sarah Goldstein

Director of Development

Sarah manages grant writing, donor relations, and fundraising strategy, securing the resources that power Habayit's growth. She has a background in nonprofit finance and community philanthropy.

M

Marcus Thompson

Children's Programs Coordinator

Marcus leads the Children's Stability Program, working with schools, tutors, and community mentors to ensure children receive continuous support and enrichment during family transitions.

L

Leila Nassir

Client Services Coordinator

Leila is often the first voice families hear when they reach out for help. She coordinates intake, case assignments, and follow-up care, ensuring no family falls through the cracks.

Ready to Connect With Us?

Whether you need support, want to volunteer, or are curious about our programs — reach out. We are here.

Contact Us Our Services

elliot@habayithome.com