Social House by Justine Fraser offers free art therapy classes for those in need. Social House works with local donors, sponsors and businesses to supply the event, while also providing treats and drinks. Soft music may be played to help participants ease into the practice. We like to work with shelters providing safe spaces for women or 2SLGBTQ+ individuals, as they are often the most overlooked part of the homeless population. It adheres to Social House’s main goal which is to empower the next wave of female leaders.
Art therapy offers a powerful, creative outlet for individuals navigating the shelter system—helping them heal, connect, and rediscover their voice. Studies show it significantly reduces anxiety, depression, and stress, making it a vital tool for emotional resilience and community building.
Art therapy is more than paint and paper, it’s a lifeline for those facing instability and trauma. Research from Premier Arts Collective highlights that art making can reduce stress and anxiety, increase self-esteem, and help individuals work through grief and maladaptive behaviors. In homeless shelters, where traditional mental health services may be limited or stigmatized, art therapy provides a non-verbal, inclusive way to process emotions and foster healing. According to DataCalculus, art therapy has emerged as a transformative modality for homeless populations, facilitating self-healing, community integration, and broader social change.
Statistics from Gitnux reveal that 80% of clients in correctional facilities report reduced aggression through art therapy, and 65% of veterans with PTSD experience significant symptom reduction—underscoring its effectiveness across vulnerable groups. For those in shelters, this creative process can be a gentle invitation to reconnect with themselves and others. And perhaps most beautifully, art therapy is a way to build community through color, connection through creativity, and hope through shared expression. In a world that often overlooks those who need it most, Social House believes in handing them the brush—and watching what unfolds.
To learn more about this project please contact fraser@justinefraser.com
JustineFraser.com 