The client, a 65-year-old Black male and proud U.S. Coast Guard veteran, spent the last five years working as a home health aide for the elderly, working hard and caring for others, despite managing diabetes and heart disease.
The client had been struggling with rent and utility payments for several years. When a community health worker (CHW) first met him, he had been living without running water for more than six months. The CHW assisted the client in applying for LIHEAP, which helped restore his gas and water services. Additional support was secured for his electric bill and rent, including $400 in emergency funding through Reconciliation Services.
The client’s daughter had submitted a Section 8 Housing application on his behalf. Because of his veteran status, he was placed on a priority list. However, to complete the process, he needed his DD-214 (proof of military service) within a short time frame. The CHW worked closely with the client to obtain the document successfully. Unfortunately, due to administrative delays, Section 8 required an additional 30–60 days to process his application.
During this waiting period, the client suffered a heart attack and was hospitalized, leaving him unable to work. The CHW promptly guided him to apply for Social Security Disability Benefits, which were approved. The CHW also assisted the client in obtaining SNAP benefits, though they were later discontinued when he resumed working part-time for two hours a day.
Throughout this difficult time, the client’s landlord remained patient and even reduced his rent. However, his outstanding balance eventually grew to $18,000, prompting an eviction notice and a scheduled court date.
Recognizing the urgency, the CHW reached out directly to the Veterans Community Project (VCP) to seek assistance. VCP referred the client to the Veterans Hospital, where housing vouchers were reportedly being distributed, but the visit yielded limited results. The CHW followed up with VCP, which led to a referral to Catholic Charities. Catholic Charities responded quickly and offered substantial assistance.
Although Catholic Charities was willing to pay the full $18,000 in back rent, the client made the brave decision to relocate and start fresh in a new home. Although the client’s new rent exceeds his income, Catholic Charities has committed to assisting with future rent support as needed.
This client’s journey is a testament to resilience, courage, and the power of persistence. Despite enduring financial hardship, serious health challenges and the threat of eviction, he never gave up. With the guidance and advocacy of a dedicated CHW, the client successfully navigated multiple systems, accessed vital resources and ultimately regained housing stability.
Today, the client lives in a safe, comfortable home where he can focus on his health and well-being. His story reflects the strength of the human spirit and the difference that compassionate community support can make. The client is the hero of his own story, overcoming obstacles, reclaiming stability, and inspiring others along the way.
Adapted from a story from the Kansas City Missouri Health Department Chronic Disease Community Health Worker Program
This article is part of our ongoing series, CHW Success Stories, which highlights the work of community health workers throughout the MARC region.
