Client Stories

Dawn's Miracle

Dawn

Room at the Inn saved me from life on the street

I am a single, mature lady with four grown children. I found my "Miracle" at Room at the Inn.

When I ran out of money to pay rent, my boyfriend and I were told to leave the place we lived. It was on a Sunday. I remember we didn't have anywhere to go, nor did we know who to ask about getting help. We walked and walked for two days and slept outside for two nights. My leg was hurting badly because I have a Sciatica nerve problem that causes me much pain.

Without insurance, I went to the emergency room at DePaul Hospital for help. I was in pain and didn't care if I lived or died. I was in bad shape and very depressed. After a while, I asked to speak to someone to get some help and a place to stay. I was referred to Social Services who gave us bus tickets and the (Homeless) Hotline phone number. We spent that night at the hospital emergency room.

The next day, I was referred to Room at the Inn, and it was a miracle. I received counseling from BJC HealthCare and assistance finding an apartment. I received help applying for disability. I also reapplied for SSI. I met weekly with the public health nurse.

Angie (Client Coordinator Angela Hamilton) encouraged me to apply for housing with my BJC caseworker. BJC put me in a housing program called Supportive Community Living Program (SCLP). Through SCLP monies; BJC pays my rent. Room at the Inn is paying the amount of my rent that exceeded BJC’s maximum. I also get help with my utilities and food. This program is temporary, until my disability is approved. Then I will pay for my own housing. I stayed at Room at the Inn until my housing was ready.

My attitude has changed and the right people have helped me. My prayers have been answered after such a long time. And, today I am having a good day. Room at the Inn is my "Miracle."

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