Shams DaBaron, known as “Da Homeless Hero”, understands New York’s housing emergency better than most – the city’s lack of housing security has defined his life. He grew up in foster care from the age two, first experienced homelessness at the age of 10, was discharged into the streets at age 12, and has dealt with the many mental, spiritual, and physical crises that accompany a lifetime of housing insecurity. Shams has gained a seat at the table to consult NYC's Mayor Eric Adams on his policies and operational plans to tackle the growing homelessness issues. A trusted advisor to the Mayor, Shams brought other people with lived experience into City Hall to help guide the Adams administration on how to tackle the issues of housing and homelessness. Called "Impacted Advocates", they helped craft NYC's Blueprint for Housing and Homelessness. Featured in many media outlets and several notable documentaries Shams is now expanding his message throughout the world.