Piece by Piece: Empowering Individuals After Homelessness and Other Challenges

The latest report from the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) has revealed a 10 percent increase in homelessness within the City of Los Angeles, bringing the total number of people experiencing homelessness to over 46,000. These figures highlight the urgent need for effective solutions to combat this crisis. Piece by Piece helps individuals improve their mental wellness, build community and earn income supporting them as they transition out of homelessness. 

Supporting Stability through Social Enterprise
Piece by Piece operates as a nonprofit organization that combines art education and employment to empower individuals who have experienced homelessness and/or economic insecurity. Piece by Piece provides a safe and supportive environment where participants learn mosaic art techniques, heal from trauma and build community. Through an innovative social enterprise model, Piece by Piece not only helps individuals create beautiful mosaic artwork, but also equips them with the tools and resources they need to thrive.

Breaking the Cycle of Homelessness
Piece by Piece is dedicated to breaking the cycle of homelessness and housing insecurity by providing unique supports to individuals who have recently transitioned into permanent housing or have faced other challenges. Securing housing and overcoming obstacles is only the first step in building a healthy future. The challenges of maintaining stability can be overwhelming. By offering a structured program that includes art workshops, job training, and ongoing mentorship, Piece by Piece addresses the multifaceted needs of participants.

Empowering Individuals Through Art
Mosaic art serves as the centerpiece of Piece by Piece's program. Participants learn various mosaic techniques, from design and cutting to grouting and finishing, enabling them to create stunning artworks. The creative process fosters self-expression, boosts confidence, and promotes a sense of accomplishment. The artworks produced by the participants are then sold through exhibitions, galleries, and other channels, generating income that goes backs to the artists.

Building Skills
Recognizing the importance of life skills, Piece by Piece places significant emphasis on supporting participants in more than just the arts. Participants gain practical knowledge around financial management, advocacy, healthy habits, and more. This comprehensive approach equips them with valuable skills that can be applied not only to their mosaic artwork but to theri entire lives

Holistic Support and Mentorship
Piece by Piece understands that true transformation requires ongoing support. They provide access to wraparound services, including case management, counseling, and job placement assistance. The organization also maintains a network of mentors who offer guidance and encouragement to participants as they navigate the challenges of maintaining housing stability and pursuing their entrepreneurial goals.

Success Stories
The impact of Piece by Piece is best reflected in the success stories of its participants. Many individuals who have completed the program have not only achieved housing stability but have also developed sustainable income streams through the sale of their artwork. in 2022, Piece by Piece artists earned over $130,000 through the sale of their art. These success stories highlight the power of art, entrepreneurship, and community support in transforming lives and creating lasting change. 

With the rise in homelessness within the City of Los Angeles, it is imperative that innovative and holistic solutions are implemented to provide solutions for our community. Piece by Piece's social enterprise model offers a unique approach that combines art education & arts wellnes, entrepreneurship training, and ongoing support to help individuals regain stability and build the community and confidence they need to thrive. By empowering participants with valuable skills, fostering creativity, and providing a supportive community, Piece by Piece is making a profound impact in breaking the cycle of homelessness and creating a brighter future for those in need.