My name is Catiriana (also known as Sparklez). After living in Oakland a year and a half I transitioned to San Francisco in the summer of 2024—drawn by its storied queer history, vibrant QTIPOC networks, and the opportunity to build something truly community-centered. Settling in SoMa, I signed the lease on what would become Honey Cove House and poured my energy into creating a sanctuary for chosen family.

Since August of last year, Honey Cove House has been a sanctuary in the heart of San Francisco’s SoMa neighborhood—a place rooted in safety, shelter, and community. When I first signed the lease, my dream was to create a home where QTIPOC (Queer, Trans, Indigenous People of Color) could feel centered, welcomed, and at ease, while also making space for our non-POC chosen family to thrive alongside us.

Over the past year, Honey Cove has provided temporary housing and support to folks in crisis—many who couldn’t afford to contribute but needed a safe place to land. I was glad to help where I could. But as the year unfolded, I’ve also faced major setbacks:

I’m working a few nights a week as a bouncer in the Castro and in the Mission, and I'm still waiting on grants for the nonprofit Minizine, as we are in a period of rebuilding.

I’m currently two months behind on rent.

Due to overwhelming stress and the loss of loved ones this spring, my academics suffered, forcing me to pause my studies for a full year until next summer semester—ultimately costing me nearly a year’s worth of income.

Essential utilities—electricity, water, internet, and trash—all ended up in my name, and now our electricity is shut off. I owe around $3,000 on the electric bill alone (75% must be paid before service is restored), plus an overdue water bill looming.

These challenges hit hard—not just numbers on a statement but threats to the safety and community we’ve built together. At this point, we can only turn to our community for the support so urgently needed.

How You Can Help

Donate whatever you can— every bit makes a difference in getting us current on past-due expenses.

Share this campaign widely to reach people who believe in housing justice, queer community, and mutual care.

Honey Cove has been a lifeline for many, and with your generosity, we can keep this sanctuary thriving for QTIPOC and our wider chosen family. Thank you for your love, solidarity, and support.

In gratitude

Catiriana (Sparklez) and the residents of Honey Cove