About Yaya’s House

Yaya’s House begins with a simple belief: every woman deserves the opportunity to feel safe, supported, and capable of building a life she can sustain.

Our mission

We are developing safe, structured transitional housing and supportive resources for adult women experiencing housing instability or navigating significant life transitions. Our approach connects housing stability, wellness, life skills, career and economic development, and community support.

Our goal is to help women build the foundation for healing, stability, independence, and a hopeful future.

Getting the home is not the finish line. Keeping the home is.

Why this work matters

A stable home creates room to focus on the next step. Practical skills and a supportive community can help turn that step into lasting progress. Yaya’s House is being built around both: a welcoming residential environment and resources that support life beyond the stay.

Meet our founder

Founded by Jamara Hicks, Yaya’s House Inc. reflects a commitment to wellness, empowerment, and community connection. Jamara brings a background in business administration, wellness coaching, and community focused work to the organization’s development.

Her vision is to create an environment where women can rebuild with dignity, develop practical tools for independence, and know they do not have to navigate every transition alone.

Where we are today

Yaya’s House Inc. is a California nonprofit public benefit corporation preparing to establish its first residential home in Oakland. We are developing the partnerships, resources, and operating foundation needed to open responsibly. A future Sacramento location is part of our longer term vision.

The residential program is not yet open. We will share opening and enrollment information as preparations are completed.

Our values

  • Dignity: honoring each woman’s humanity, voice, and individual path.
  • Stability: building habits and support systems that can last beyond a program stay.
  • Empowerment: helping women strengthen their skills, confidence, and ability to make informed choices.
  • Community: bringing people and resources together around a shared purpose.
  • Accountability: approaching the mission with care, structure, and responsible stewardship.

Explore ways to get involved or start a conversation with us.