When you think of a homeless shelter, do you imagine a rosy Tuscan villa, with lush landscaping, and quiet corners to discover yourself and recharge? Mafi Moli, maintenance tech and janitor at GRIP, does; and that’s the exact inspiration for a beautiful new feature at GRIP.
The energetic and powerfully built Tongan was busily putting boards together as a new wall went up separating the parking lot from the garden.
“I love fixing things, Moli said. “Every time a project is given to me, I do make sure that is getting done on time and it’s done well.”
The surprise design aesthetic and creative energy that went into this small wall is perfect evidence of Moli being true to his word.
“Moli is more than a maintenance technician at GRIP; he’s a cornerstone of the warmth and beauty we strive to bring to our community. His work on the garden patio area gives our clients a beautiful, calming space where they can reflect,” Executive Director Ralph Payton said.
Moli is now celebrating his first year of working at GRIP, and he’s making a difference.
“Clients and staff alike connect with him—not just because he’s reliable and hardworking, but because he embodies GRIP’s mission to create a space that feels like home. Watching Moli transform everyday projects into sources of pride and joy for GRIP reminds us of the power of compassion and creativity in action,” Payton said.
For Moli, that’s the whole purpose.
“I love helping people. GRIP is a place where you are welcome with open arms.”
If he’s welcoming you, his open arms are strong, accustomed to building physical things. Permanent things that look beautiful. For Moli, it’s just like the people at GRIP.
“Grip is a place where they uplift you if you’re down. GRIP has different meanings to different people, but it’s home to everyone.”
“Moli has a gift for making people feel welcome and supported; his energy and dedication truly lift up everyone around him,” Payton added.
Moli has worked as a both a mechanic and landscaper before taking the job as janitor and maintenance leader at GRIP. “I love working with my hands,” he said. “I love fixing things.”
The things he fixes around GRIP are more than just fences, plumbing, or gardens. He is fixing the things that make GRIP home. And in doing so, he’s helping fix lives and fix people on a new course in life toward success and self-reliance.
GRIP cares for over 15,000 people experiencing homelessness and food insecurity in the West County area. As a family shelter, it’s one of the few places where couples and kids can stay together. Men are never separated from their wives or partners. There is no religious requirement or mandatory church attendance. GRIP focuses on solving people’s most basic needs first, then caring for them as they get back on their feed and even later return to help others follow in their footsteps.
You can give to GRIP with your monetary donations or by donating clothing, sandwiches, toiletries, towels, jackets, even blankets, duffel bags and luggage.
