Delphia Bizzell — Consumer Engagement Coordinator

Pine Street Inn’s consumer engagement coordinator, Delphia “Del” Bizzell, drives engagement strategy and ensures that shelter guests and tenants have a forum to provide feedback and to have their voices heard.

“My role is to be the voice of the voiceless and to empower guests and tenants,” says Del. “I make sure their needs are met by our facilities and services teams. I want guests know that there’s life beyond the shelter and that homelessness is a temporary thing that can be changed.”

Originally from Kentucky, Del moved to Boston with her husband to be with family. Unfortunately, their living situation fell through. Since there were no shelters for couples, they were forced to seek refuge in two separate shelters.

“When we came to shelter, I felt like I did not have a voice,” says Del. “We worked hard at the housing process and managed to secure an apartment in two years when they said it would take longer.”

With renewed hope, Del joined various committees, including Boston’s advisory council to the mayor to end homelessness (BacHome), Boston Continuum of Care, Massachusetts Housing and Shelter Alliance Speakers Bureau and Winter Walk, using her experience to help others experiencing homelessness. When Pine Street was looking for someone who had experienced homelessness to help shape our guest and tenant advisory board initiatives, Delphia stepped up.

“It was a new start. I’ve always been a compassionate person, and this role helps me direct my compassion in a constructive way,” she concludes. “I can help make changes in other people’s lives.”