Contact Instructions
I'm currently not hosting right now to take some time for myself after doing this for 5 years. Will update the site when I'm hosting again!
Donation FAQ
How much does it cost?
It's a recommended donation of $25 per person per night but it is not enforced or pressured in any way. All contributions go towards paying bills for the homeless shelter I run. I don't make money from this.
If you can't afford to pay any money, you are expected to help out around the house with chores or projects I have going on to help others. Usually guests can volunteer at my other project; Pittsburgh Good Deeds.
I want to donate to the cause, or I want to donate with a card after my stay?
Hey, thanks! All donations help this stay afloat. Whether that is paying for the house, utilities, or food for the homeless shelter. All donations are tax deductible.
I could not do this project without help, so you have my eternal thanks. Here is the paypal link to donate:
Do you need anything other than cash?
Certainly! I can always use household items like hand/dish soap, toilet paper, paper towels, and sometimes clothes.
Are you a 501c3 not for profit entity?
Yeah! All donations are tax deductable. Any donations under $250 do not need a receipt to be taken off your taxes. You can still ask for one if you want, though!
Guest FAQ
I want to make a reservation, how do I do so?
You must send an email (at the bottom of this page) with the info below (A, B and C). Also note important info (1, 2 and 3).
A: Social media page link of each person in your group (copy/paste the text in the top of your browser when on your profile. Don't just send me your name). You can send a facebook, linkedin, or couchsurfing page. This is for accountability purposes only so I know who will be staying in my home. If you do not have social media, let me know and I will have you scan your photo ID instead.
B: Your phone number. If your phone number does not work in the US, mention that! I have whatsapp for international people. I might have to call you if it's short notice and something comes up.
C: The exact dates you want to stay. Open ended inquiries, or "maybe a few days" inquiries will not be accepted. It's usually full here, so it's not possible to be so flexible. Also, normally I don't accept people for more than a few days. If you need to stay longer, ask first and I might consider it!
1. I only accept people at most a month out (don't write me months in advance.) My typical response time to an email is 24 hours (sometimes longer if I'm busy!). Be sure to check your spam folder for a response if you don't see one.
2. Do not contact me about staying in the homeless shelter house. I find people for that through a different agency. I do occasisonally help Pittsburghers in the hostel house, but very rarely and only under extenuating circumstances. Feel free to ask, but expect a "no".
3. I only have indoor hammocks (they are super comfortable), as well as two massive, yet friendly, dogs. If you don't like hammocks or dogs, this is not the place for you.
It's last minute! Can I call you?
If you've already sent the above info and only if it's the day you want to stay, call/text me at (412) 212-3912 (from 11 AM to 8 PM). It's a google voice number, and it will not forward your call if you call outside that time window. You can leave a voicemail, though.
Do not call to reserve a spot more than a day out or to ask questions. That can all be done via email. If you do not follow these simple instructions, I will not accept you.
How can I trust you?
Read the reviews under the "House info" tab. If you still don't trust me, I've got nothing for you.
Where are you located/is there parking nearby?
The map under the "House info" tab shows approximately where the house is. You can use that address to figure out bus routes/commutability of wherever you need to go while in Pittsburgh.
There is tons of free parking nearby my house. And it's very safe.
Can I bring pets or friends to your house?
Dogs might be possible on a case by case basis. No cats or other animals, sorry!
You cannot bring other people into my house without asking. It might be okay, but I have to know who it is. Also, please be very specific about how many people will be in your group when you book.
What about alcohol/drugs?
I don't care if you drink while staying here, you just have to be responsible. Be in control and mindful of your actions when staying here. I am not okay with drunken boisterousness, harassment of other guests, or vomiting while you are in my home. I will make you leave if you are out of control while intoxicated.
If you bring drugs into my house, I will kick you out. Even if I don't know about it, and you somehow get arrested with drugs in my house, I can lose everything. You are jeopardizing two projects that help travelers and the homeless. Please be respectful and socially responsible.
Do you have space?
Maybe. Check the calender below to find out. I have 6 spots, so you can find out if a specific date has any openings. Single bookings will just be a name, and multiple people bookings will have a number next to the name with how many people it's for. I sometimes am not caught up on bookings (or people may have messaged me before you for the same dates), so this calendar is just a reference.
Availibility?
Contact Form