South Wilmington Street Center - Raleigh, North Carolina

Anonymous

I was here for 4 months in 2021 and I told Ms. Tillman and the guy Rich who used to work there to please not place me in a bad neighborhood. I said that everyday I was here……they placed me in a crack infested neighborhood and for the past 3 years Ive been through nothing but hell where Im at then when I complained Jennifer tried to suggest therapy for me. I hate yall so much for not listening to my needs because not every young black male wants to live in the hood. Im grateful im not homeless but yall didnt have to do that to me.

Rashad H.

I am writing to express my profound disappointment with the South Wilmington Street Center, an institution whose primary mission should be to help end homelessness and support its clients in regaining stability. Regrettably, my experience has shown that the center’s leadership and staff fail to meet even the most basic standards of care, professionalism, and accountability.

During my time at the center, I encountered staff members, including Frankie Lawrence and Julie Segar, who exhibited a pattern of condescension and dismissive behavior towards clients. Such treatment is not only unprofessional but also demeaning to individuals who are already in vulnerable situations. This environment fosters mistrust and perpetuates a cycle of mental and emotional abuse rather than offering the dignity and support clients need to rebuild their lives.

I have witnessed alarming incidents that highlight gross negligence. These include three overdose deaths during my stay, which are tragic reminders of the lack of safety measures in place. On one occasion, I reported two clients engaging in illicit drug use in a restroom stall to a supervisor, who personally witnessed the activity. Shockingly, no action was taken against the individuals involved, demonstrating an alarming indifference to client safety and the overall well-being of the community.

The inconsistencies in staff policies and practices further compound the center’s failings. While clients are required to wear masks, basic hygiene essentials such as soap and hand sanitizer are often unavailable in restrooms. There is no enforcement of basic cleanliness standards, such as requiring clients to bathe regularly, which undermines both public health and personal dignity.

Moreover, the center lacks meaningful programs designed to equip clients with the tools necessary for long-term success. There are no initiatives for resume building, interview preparation, or skills development—critical resources for breaking the cycle of homelessness. Instead, clients are left without guidance, forced to endure the center’s toxic environment because they have no other options.

I was terminated from the program after declining a shared housing arrangement that accommodated up to 14 individuals at an exorbitant cost of $755 per person. I made this decision because I prioritize what is best for my long-term stability, not what is convenient for the center’s administration. I believe my decision—and subsequent termination—reflects the center’s inability to recognize or support clients with higher aspirations or unique circumstances. It appears that individuals like myself, who are educated and determined to rebuild their lives, are perceived as a threat rather than an opportunity for success stories.

In light of these issues, I intend to escalate my concerns to the board of directors to demand accountability and advocate for meaningful changes. South Wilmington Street Center has the potential to be a transformative force in combating homelessness, but this requires leadership willing to implement policies that prioritize safety, respect, and genuine opportunities for growth. Until such changes are made, the center will continue to fail the very people it is meant to serve.

Sincerely,
Rashad!

Roy B.

Great place for getting real help if you are ready to do the work for it

Adrian T.

A place to get help and housing. Staff are helpful and kind. This place was a blessing for me.

David L. H.

The staff are dedicated to helping everyone who comes to this place. They are respectful and courteous.

MrAntDaniels A.

The center for progressive housing program. Not to be mistaken with anything else.

Kenneth D.

This is a really amazing place. They helped me find a place they paid the deposit and rent for two months! They have good food for a homeless shelter. It’s very clean they have a ton of resources and they really try to help you if you want it. A lot of people just want a roof while they get high. Jennifer, Ms. Cotina, Ametha, Frank are all wonderful people, oh and the pretty short lady from NY too I can’t remember her name.

James I.

I was very thankful for this place from 2010 to 2014. I was there off an on. Somewhat strict at that time but good security is needed in these places. God bless those that are housed there and may they find the right direction to get work and out from there and to their own place.