Grace Homes Inc is a residential care facility dedicated to providing compassionate care for individuals with mental disabilities, with a primary focus on those with autism. Established by mother and son duo, Omozele Biggins and Osamudiamien Aigbuza, the facility is located in the Bayview neighborhood of San Francisco. Grace Homes offers a safe and nurturing environment where residents receive round-the-clock care. Each resident benefits from personalized in-home services provided by trained staff and a Nurse Assistant, ensuring their physical and emotional well-being. Moreover, through a partnership with the Golden Gate Regional Center, residents participate in a structured day program aimed at enhancing their quality of life and independence.
The seeds for Grace Homes were planted long before its official incorporation in April 2021. Omozele, who has a rich background in healthcare, was inspired by her years working as a patient care assistant during the AIDS epidemic in San Francisco’s Castro/Duboce area. Through this experience, she found profound fulfillment in helping those in need and it ultimately motivated her to establish Grace Homes decades later. Her passion for community service never waned, as she transitioned to a 20-year career with the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA).
During the pandemic, as Omozele and her son Osa spent more time together, their mutual entrepreneurial spirit was reignited. Omozele earned her Adult Residential Administrator Certification in April 2021, and together, they embarked on the journey to create Grace Homes, fulfilling a long-held dream of providing care for those in need.
Osa, a San Jose State University graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Business, brought his experience as a personal trainer and small business owner to the venture. Osa manages the day-to-day operations, while Omozele oversees the strategic and financial aspects, making
Starting a residential care facility from the ground up presented significant challenges, especially navigating the complexities of converting a single-family home into a fully licensed adult care facility during a global pandemic. The transformation required extensive renovations, including building stairs, purchasing furniture, and meeting all state licensing requirements. These unforeseen expenses, coupled with the delay in obtaining clients due to the lengthy licensing process, strained their finances.
Grace Homes initially relied on a credit card to cover these costs, but the high interest rates and lack of revenue quickly became a burden. That’s when they turned to Main Street Launch. With guidance from Gwendolyn Wright of the San Francisco Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and support from Darius Mahajer, SVP – Senior Relationship Manager at Main Street Launch, they secured a $50,000 loan. This loan not only cut their interest rate in half but also provided the financial stability needed to pay off the credit card and manage payroll, allowing them to focus on their core mission: providing exceptional care.
Osa reflects on their experience with Main Street Launch as both educational and empowering. He emphasizes the thoroughness and support received throughout the loan process: “It wasn’t just about securing funds; it was about finding a partner who believed in our potential,” he shares. “Darius and the team at Main Street Launch not only provided financial assistance but also invaluable guidance and encouragement.”
Omozele adds, “This loan was a lifeline. It allowed us to move forward without the constant pressure of mounting debt. We can now focus on growing our business and helping our residents thrive.” For those considering entering the residential care industry, Omozele and Osa offer practical advice: “Make sure you have the financial cushion to sustain your business through the inevitable delays and challenges,” says Omozele.
Looking ahead, Omozele and Osa aspire to expand their impact within the community, inspired by Omozele’s journey from Nigeria to San Francisco—a testament to the limitless possibilities of pursuing one’s dreams. “It’s essential to love what you do because the process is tough, but if you’re passionate, you’ll persevere.” Osa echoes his mother’s sentiments and adds, “No dream is too big. My mom came to America as an immigrant at 18 and started her first business at 55. If she can do it, anyone can. Believe in yourself and never give up.”
Grace Homes Inc stands as a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and family. As they continue to grow and serve, Omozele and Osa remain dedicated to enriching the lives of their residents and inspiring others to pursue their passions fearlessly. With the support of Main Street Launch, Omozele and Osa have created a haven for individuals with mental disabilities, providing them with the care and respect they deserve, while also fulfilling their own dreams.
