Episode 30:
Raphael House -
Inspiring Families and Illuminating Hope
December 2, 2025
In this special episode of The Bay Insider, Amanda Martin and Ying He sit down with Teresa Van Woy: author, podiatrist, world traveler, and former resident of Raphael House. Teresa shares her remarkable childhood story, from growing up with eight siblings on the road to eventually finding safety, structure, and a sense of home at Raphael House, a San Francisco organization that has supported low-income and homeless families since 1971.
Amanda and Ying talk about how Raphael House has evolved over the years, from its early days run by nuns to the comprehensive, family-focused program it is now, offering shelter, education support, job training, and long-term stability through its Bridge Program. With a 95% success rate in helping families secure permanent housing, it remains one of the city’s most meaningful resources.
It’s a heartfelt conversation about resilience, community, and the impact real stability can have on a child’s life.
If you’d like to dive deeper into Teresa’s story, her book Wildflower is available on Amazon and at local bookstores. Tune in and learn how you can support the work Raphael House continues to do.
Raphael House Information
Website: www.raphaelhouse.org
Email: info@raphaelhouse.org
Black & White Gala: event.auctria.com/503b1f03-0cd9-4901-a665-5cdbe41ec74a/
Teresa Van Woy’s Social Media Accounts:
Youtube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCtuiOk4GxTQiLWdJeuYg0Aw
Facebook: www.facebook.com/drteresamvanwoy
Instagram: www.instagram.com/drteresavanwoy/
Twitter / X: x.com/drteresavanwoy
Wildflower Book: www.amazon.com/dp/1734382724?fbclid=IwAR1CsKA218rGMm_qLet1fNqCJ04F686pRGnRvKdMXLTN6l56CvBlPHNqehc
Teresa Van Woy’s Contact Information:
Podiatry: www.drteresavanwoy.com/podiatry