This is Mr. B's War Story

Resident Spotlight

"I can honestly say this program has helped me get back on my feet, believe in myself and know it is 'OK' to ask for help." Ms. S.T. is referring to a new, innovative program designed to assist families that are at low to moderate risk of becoming homeless and do not need to be placed in a shelter. Families are screened by City of Norfolk workers and commit to one year of case management services provided by our In-Home Services Case Manager. Participating families are offered up to a year's worth of resources to help them maintain stable housing and employment or improve their life options. These resources include at least weekly counseling from a Case Manager, financial management education, tenant and parenting classes, and referrals to community agencies for food, clothing and furniture. The Case Manager and the families act as a unit, setting goals together.

"I was very reluctant to have someone come in my home," said Ms. S.T., a current participant in the program. "I thought the person would try to tell me how to live my life, but that was not the case at all. I had somebody to come in and show genuine concern for me and my kids. She encouraged me and helped me to face times in my life that had seemed to keep me down in the past. My Case Manager showed me how to do things the right way without taking short cuts." Since she joined the program, Ms. S.T. has gotten a better job and passed the entry tests to begin night classes at TCC to become an LPN. "I am really proud of myself," she said. So are we.