This 'crisis intervention therapy pig' is helping DC's homeless: 'We have to think outside the box'

Washington, D.C.'s homeless population grew by 4.4% last year, reaching 5,363 people. This includes those in shelters and those without. This increase shows a clear need for new ways to help.

The H3 Project is a local nonprofit working to end homelessness and human trafficking in D.C. The group's name stands for home, health, and happiness. Its team works from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, even on holidays, to meet people where they are. They focus on areas like Union Station and downtown hubs.

In 2025, H3 provided nearly 2,000 essential items. They also gave 217 doses of Narcan, helped 234 people apply for benefits, and found 93 housing matches.

Synergy the Therapy Pig

Now, H3 has a new team member: a 5-pound pig named Synergy. Synergy belongs to Ami M. Angell, who started H3 in 2020.

Angell believes in thinking differently because everyone is unique. She told The Washington Post that what works for one person might not work for another. The goal is to find a way to connect, even if it's just a small opening at first.

Angell used to carry cigarettes to start conversations or calm tense situations, even though she didn't smoke. Then, a friend told her about Juliana pigs. These pigs are hypoallergenic, friendly, and eager to please, much like service dogs.

Angell noted that many people she works with have never seen or touched a pig. She said pigs love everyone equally, no matter their age, race, or gender.

Synergy joined H3 in March. She now works with Angell every day. She either trains at the organization's Union Station headquarters or goes out on outreach with a harness and leash.

Randall Baldree, an H3 client, said Synergy is like a magnet. Everyone wants to be around her, and she provides emotional support.

Synergy can also do tricks, like spinning, jumping hurdles, and playing a toy piano. These talents help break the ice and make it easier to connect with people.

One success story involves a woman in her late 60s who had resisted case management for seven years. After meeting Synergy, she became willing to work with Angell. Angell said the woman now answers questions and makes progress as long as Synergy is nearby.

Synergy's name reflects her impact. Angell explained that the pig helps ground people and reminds them there's more to life. She wants her homeless clients to know they are not defined by their current situation and deserve a better future.

Pets as a Lifeline

Experts agree that pets are vital for unhoused people. They offer stability and support that might otherwise be missing.

A pilot project in California made homeless shelters pet-friendly. This allowed over 4,000 people to keep their pets while getting help. It also encouraged 886 people to move into permanent housing with their pets. This success rate was higher than the state average.

Angell knows Synergy alone won't end homelessness. However, she believes Synergy's companionship can bring people closer to relief.

When not with clients, Angell uses Synergy to talk to the public about H3's work. She says Synergy is helping make the world a better place in her own way.