08/31/2026
“Our client “Derek” has been joining us for our evening meal for more than ten years.
Recently, he lost his place at one of our partner organizations. So, once a bed became available, we quickly offered him space at our Julia’s Place shelter and advised him to meet with our case manager.
After many conversations, we discovered that all of his benefits, including medical, had stopped seven years ago because he did not sign a document correctly. As a result, he could not pay for his medication, and without it was unable to work. Our case manager helped him sign up for Social Security. For the first time in seven years, he had his medication and had money to buy food, and he cried tears of joy.
As his health improved, we discussed next steps and asked if he was interested in our senior housing program. He said he was thankful, but believed someone else needed it more than him. Finally, we convinced him to come and see the room. We took him on a tour, and when we opened the door to the room, he fell to his knees crying thankful tears. He recently moved into senior housing, and we all cried; so glad he found stability!
Even when it’s one out of one hundred guests - it gives us hope to see lives changed and hearts transformed.”
Written by: Tonette Winston, Director of Housing & Shelter Services
