Our Story 

Housing Works was founded by Mary Kirchen and the late Tom Mcguinnes, Mollie Lowery, two visionaries who believed that housing is just the beginning—and that everyone deserves the chance to heal, rebuild, and thrive. Mollie lived by the motto, “Whatever it takes, for however long it takes,” and applied it to every person she helped. When she left us nine years ago, Housing Works served 425 participants with a dedicated staff of 32. Today, we proudly support more than 1,400 individuals across Los Angeles with a compassionate team of 70. Our Executive Director, Celina Alvarez, began her journey on the frontlines and was later appointed to lead the organization—bringing firsthand experience, empathy, and a deep understanding of our mission into the culture of Housing Works today. We continue to be guided by Mollie’s values—serving with heart, persistence, and humanity—one life, one person, one relationship at a time.