Safe · Supported · Empowered
Where every girl will find her fit
A state-approved home for unhoused girls ages 13–21 in Philadelphia — founded by Cynthia Baines, a nurse, mother, and lifelong advocate who turned a nickname into a mission.
More than just a place to stay, you'll find a community that sees you, supports you, and believes in your potential. We are committed to providing a nurturing environment where every girl feels valued, respected, and encouraged to discover her strengths.
Whether you're here for a short time or a longer journey, know this — you belong. You are part of a legacy built on care, resilience, and hope. We're excited to walk alongside you as you take your next steps.
We are a personal, intentional alternative to the typically larger, less personal group home. We specialize in the ability to provide a high level of care in a small, home-like setting — where every girl is known by name, not by number.
Every space was thoughtfully created — comfortable, warm, and designed for the girls in our care.
Three core programs work together to help each girl stabilize, heal, and step confidently into her future.
A real, structured home — not just a placement. Girls live in a warm, safe space where they are seen and valued every day.
Trauma-informed emotional support from a clinically trained founder who genuinely understands what these girls carry.
The practical tools and real confidence to take on adulthood — at any age, at any pace.
Cynthia became a mother at fifteen and dropped out of school to raise her child. By twenty-eight she was a mother of eight. By thirty she had earned her high school diploma.
Through hard work and unwavering commitment, she sent eight of her eleven children to college — while raising two in high school and one in kindergarten at the same time.
She became a nurse in 2016, earned her BSN, and worked for years as a psychiatric nurse in a hospital crisis response center — on the front lines for people in their most vulnerable moments.
She didn't just name this home — she lived it. She had so many children she didn't know what to do. And then she figured it out. That story is the foundation of everything we do here.
"Her actual actions and what she has done are more significant and revealing than anything she might say or promise."
We are a personal, intentional alternative to the typically larger, less personal group home — specializing in a high level of care within a small, home-like setting where every girl is truly known and valued.
What makes us different? Cynthia Baines. At just fifteen years old, Cynthia became a mother and dropped out of school to raise her child. By twenty-eight, she was a mother of eight children. And by thirty, she earned her high school diploma — proving that it is never too late and that determination has no deadline.
She is affectionately known as The Lady in the Shoe — because she truly was. She had to learn what to do. Through hard work, perseverance, and an unshakeable love for her children, Cynthia sent eight children to college while simultaneously raising two in high school and one in kindergarten. She now has eleven children — two through foster care.
In 2016, she became a nurse. She then returned to college to earn her Bachelor's Degree in Nursing and went on to work as a psychiatric nurse in the crisis response center at a local hospital — standing on the front lines for those in their most vulnerable moments.
Her actual actions and what she has done are more significant and revealing than anything she might say or promise. This home is not built on credentials alone — it is built on a life fully lived, a story of resilience, and a woman who refused to give up on herself or anyone else.
Cynthia became a mother at 15 and dropped out of school. She earned her diploma at 30 and her nursing degree in 2016. She knows what it means to start over and succeed.
While raising 11 children — two through foster care — she put eight through college. Results speak louder than promises.
Years working in crisis response as a psych nurse gives Cynthia a clinical edge few group home founders possess.
Her life is the proof. Everything she offers these girls she has already done — for herself and for her own children.
A family united by purpose — bringing professional expertise, compassion, and lived experience to every girl in our care.
"This is more than a home — it is a family legacy built on love, service, and an unwavering belief in every girl's potential."
The Baines Family · Founders of The Lady in the Shoe
"I was the lady in the shoe who had to learn what to do. My actions and what I have done are more significant than anything I might say or promise — and I promise you, I will never stop."
— Cynthia Baines, BSN-RN · Founder, The Lady in the Shoe
Whether you're a girl in need, a case worker making a referral, or a concerned family member — we are here. The Lady in the Shoe is currently accepting new residents ages 13–21.
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Structure, consistency, and warmth — every day is designed to help our girls feel safe, supported, and prepared for life.
Everything case workers, families, and community partners need to know.
Our program serves unhoused girls between the ages of 13 and 21 in the Philadelphia area. We work closely with DHS and other referral agencies to identify and place girls who need a safe, stable, nurturing home environment.
We accept referrals from DHS, social workers, case managers, schools, and community organizations. Simply call us at (215) 933-0505 or (267) 730-5573, or fill out our contact form. We respond promptly and guide you through the full state intake process.
We are state-approved for 10 or more girls at a time. Each resident receives individualized support through her own care plan, developed in collaboration with her case worker and our founder Cynthia Baines.
Placement is coordinated through DHS and state-approved funding. There is no direct cost to families. Contact us or your DHS case worker to learn how placement and funding works for your situation.
We are committed to keeping every girl in school and on track academically. We provide homework help, school enrollment assistance, and transportation support so education stays a priority throughout her stay.
Length of stay is determined case-by-case in coordination with DHS and the resident's care team. Our goal is always to provide stability for as long as each girl needs it, while working toward a safe permanent living situation.
Our girls arrive with very little. Your generosity — whether clothing, household items, or a financial gift — makes a direct difference in a girl's life.
We gladly accept clean, gently used or new clothing for girls ages 13–21 — all seasons, all sizes.
New or gently used items go directly to making our residents feel at home and ready for life.
Every dollar goes directly to our residents — meals, clothing, school trips, and emergency needs.
All donations go directly to the girls in our care. Thank you for your generosity.
Schools, churches, businesses, and community groups are welcome to partner with us.
