At the University of Mount Saint Vincent in the Bronx, eight women pay just $250 a month for a safe room and year-round support through a unique housing partnership between the school, local nuns, and a nonprofit, enabling them to pursue their college degrees without the constant threat of homelessness.
- Students pay a low monthly fee for private rooms and support.
- The program operates in partnership with local nuns and a nonprofit.
- Housing is available year-round, not just during school terms.
What happened
Grace Pavlock and other college women at the University of Mount Saint Vincent faced the threat of homelessness while pursuing their degrees. Traditional housing options were either unaffordable or unavailable, putting these students at high risk of dropping out. The university partnered with the Sisters of Charity of New York and Depaul USA to create Dax House, a residence that provides affordable, stable housing along with comprehensive support services for housing-insecure students.
For just $250 a month, students receive private rooms, a permanent address to access social services, and case management to help with challenges such as health insurance and career planning. This support lets students focus on their studies without the anxiety of unstable living conditions. The Dax program, which began nationally in 2015, now serves over 90 students in multiple cities, aiming to reduce student homelessness and promote academic success.
Why it feels good
This partnership highlights the power of community collaboration to tackle a complex issue like student homelessness. By transforming an underused convent space into a safe and welcoming home, the Sisters of Charity show compassionate leadership that extends beyond charity to real structural support. The availability of year-round housing helps students avoid gaps during school breaks, which can often lead to lost progress or dropout.
Moreover, the program acknowledges students as whole individuals whose academic potential can be unlocked when their basic needs are met. The University of Mount Saint Vincent’s approach to combining housing with case management offers a hopeful model for other institutions facing similar challenges. It’s a nurturing, practical response that brings dignity and opportunity to vulnerable students striving for a better future.
What to enjoy or watch next
Keep an eye on expansions of the Dax House program in New York City and beyond as it addresses student homelessness nationally. Future stories may spotlight success stories of graduates who benefited from this housing stability, illustrating how sustained support transforms lives. The collaboration between educational institutions, nonprofits, and religious groups could inspire similar partnerships tailored to other communities.
Additionally, watching how universities incorporate comprehensive support services—beyond scholarships—to meet students’ basic needs can shift conversations about educational equity. Sharing resources about housing insecurity awareness and advocacy can also foster greater public understanding and involvement, helping more students find their footing on the path to graduation.