
BRIDGING STORIES.
BUILDING EMPATHY.
About Humanizing Homelessness
Born from the heart of Pathways Community Center, Humanizing Homelessness began as a bold 10-day immersive exhibit and has since evolved into a transformative movement. Our mission is simple yet profound: to break down stereotypes, foster empathy, and advocate for systemic change by sharing the diverse stories of individuals who have experienced homelessness. What sets us apart is our multi-layered approach—combining thought-provoking dialogue, innovative tools like virtual reality, and the simple yet powerful act of sharing a cup of coffee. Through these efforts, we aim to create a more compassionate and inclusive society where every person is seen, heard, and valued. Together, we’re changing the narrative, one story, one conversation, and one cup at a time.
Listen to their Stories
Immerse yourself in a world where the stories of individuals facing homelessness come to life. By setting aside stereotypes and beliefs, you will better understand the people behind these stories. Step into their shoes, experience their daily challenges, and witness the raw emotions that often remain unseen. Let your heart genuinely hear and feel the stories. May you learn from the stories, empathize with the experiences, and be inspired to ignite change in your community. Click the photos below to dive into their stories.
Moving Our Mission Forward,
One Cup of Coffee At a Time.
Elevate your coffee experience by fueling your mornings with purpose and compassion. Introducing the immersive Humanizing Homelessness Coffee Blend—crafted to deliver bold flavors and even bolder impact.
It’s more than coffee—it’s a gift that keeps on giving. Perfect for holiday gifting, family gatherings, or corporate gifts, each bag supports the mission of Pathways Community Center and brings stories of resilience to life through an interactive QR code.
Each in-store purchase includes a free custom coaster designed by Amanda, a talented artist currently experiencing homelessness with The Life House. Her heartfelt design reflects the hope and resilience she sees through her journey, offering a unique and personal touch to your coffee experience.

​​​​Purchase at Knowledge Perk Rock Hill or Online
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Address: 130 W. White Street, Rock Hill, SC
Daily hours: 7 AM – 7 PM
or order online (shipping is available)
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Start Meaningful Conversations
Every bag includes access to Coffee Conversation Starters—thoughtful prompts designed to help you break through stigmas and stereotypes often associated with homelessness. Whether it’s around the family dinner table, in church groups, or in the breakroom at work, these conversations inspire deeper understanding. They foster empathy and spark meaningful change in our community.

Experience the Exhibit and Tour Pathways Community Center
Visit our Humanizing Homelessness Exhibit in person and witness how 11+ on-site agencies, including Bethel Shelters, The Life House, and The Haven Men's Shelter, collaborate to empower individuals toward self-sufficiency.
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Tour our innovative 40,000-square-foot campus—the first in York County—which provides one-stop access to critical services for those facing homelessness or poverty. Discover how you can make a difference through volunteering, donating, or simply gaining a deeper understanding of our mission. Seeing is believing!
Location:
546 South Cherry Road
Rock Hill, SC 29730
This immersive social exhibit is powered and sponsored by the Williams Family Foundation.
Humanizing Homelessness Virtual Reality
Discover the Humanity Behind Homelessness with the Humanizing Homelessness Virtual Reality Exhibit. This groundbreaking VR platform delivers a deeply immersive 3D experience, allowing you to see, hear, and feel the stories of those experiencing homelessness firsthand. Designed for accessibility, it’s the perfect tool for education, advocacy, and change—ideal for classrooms, church groups, corporate initiatives, or community events. Pair this transformative experience with our custom coffee blend, and brew change with every sip.
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How It Works
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Whether you’re on a phone, iPad, or desktop/laptop, you can engage with this virtual exhibit from anywhere. For the most immersive experience, use any VR goggles. Click and drag your mouse or use the arrow keys on your keyboard to move forward, backward, left, or right.​
Our Partners

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