Meet the Founder

 Matthieu-Amanda Custodio Tapia (They/Them) is a resilient advocate, entrepreneur, community builder and dedicated professional committed to supporting others through trauma-informed, non-judgmental care.

Born and raised in New York City, Matthieu-Amanda faced immense challenges from a young age. They survived prenatal drug exposure, spent years in and out of foster care, and returned to a neglectful and abusive home, ultimately running away at 16. Navigating life independently, they encountered adolescent homelessness, incarceration, food insecurity, and trauma—experiences that shaped their deep empathy and fueled their passion for helping others.

During their time in juvenile detention, Matthieu-Amanda earned their GED in just 72 days, turning a pivotal moment of hardship into an opportunity for growth. They went on to earn an Associate’s degree in Criminal Justice from A.S.A. Community College and a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology with a minor in Psychology from Lehman College, proving that resilience, determination, and hard work can transform adversity into achievement.

Matthieu-Amanda has over a decade of experience in the nonprofit sector, working with diverse communities including foster children and families, at-risk and unhoused individuals, and those affected by HIV/AIDS. They recently founded In Gentle Hands LLC, a child, yard, and home care service supporting, LGBTQ+, disabled individuals, elders, those experiencing depression or hoarding challenges, neurodivergent, cancer patients, families experiencing hospice and hardworking parents and professionals. Their approach emphasizes harm reduction, trauma-informed care, and empathetic support, creating meaningful and positive change for communities, clients and thier spaces. 

Beyond their professional work, Matthieu-Amanda volunteers in various spaces providing support to community. They are an avid adventurer and nature enthusiast, enjoying biking, swimming, travel, attending events, and chasing sunsets and sunrises—a reflection of their joy, curiosity, and zest for life.