Shining Hope in Oakland Together

Discover How A Diamond in the Ruff Is Transforming Stability, Safety, and Opportunity for Women and Children

Watch our Diamond in the Ruff grantee spotlight video to see our community in action

“Support from Episcopal Impact Fund helps us give women and children in Oakland the stability, safety, and encouragement they need to rebuild their lives. This grant is truly an investment in hope and new beginnings.” —Tracey Nails-Bell, Executive Director and Founder, A Diamond in the Ruff

At Episcopal Impact Fund, we believe that safe, stable housing paired with compassionate support is one of the most transformative gifts we can make in someone’s life. That’s why we are honored to support A Diamond in the Ruff, an Oakland-based nonprofit that is redefining what transitional housing looks like for single women and single mothers with children. Through their holistic model of housing and services, they don’t just provide a roof — they walk alongside participants on the journey toward healing, stability, and independence.

A Diamond in the Ruff’s programs are intentionally designed to serve women at some of the most vulnerable points in their lives — whether they are experiencing homelessness, recovering from trauma, leaving domestic violence, or returning from incarceration. Their transitional housing programs offer high-quality, shared living environments where residents can access life-skills coaching, employment resources, childcare support, and trauma-informed care. This blend of stability and empowerment helps women uncover their inner strength and rebuild with dignity and purpose.

What truly sets this organization apart is its focus on community and connection. Participants in their programs aren’t navigating challenges alone; they become part of a supportive community that fosters healing and mutual encouragement. By serving both women and their children, A Diamond in the Ruff creates generational impact — helping families break cycles of poverty and build solid foundations for the future.

We are proud to include A Diamond in the Ruff in our 2025 Housing Security Grantee Cohort, recognizing their commitment to lasting transformation in the Bay Area. Their work embodies Episcopal Impact Fund’s mission to support organizations that offer not just housing, but opportunity, resilience, and hope.

Together, we’re investing in brighter futures for women, children, and the broader Oakland community.