James, 56, had been working at a fast‑food restaurant when a severe stroke left him unable to work. The loss of income and mounting medical bills led to an eviction. With no family to turn to for help, he had no choice but to sleep in a tent in the woods.
James spent two years living that way before a friend told him about The Care Service. Care Service Street Outreach workers brought James food, water, blankets, and connected him to resources like the Emergency Warming Shelter, a safe place for people experiencing homelessness to stay during the coldest winter nights. “Every time I needed something, you guys were there to help me,” James shared.
But surviving on the streets came with challenges most people never think about. Every night, James had to find a safe place to sleep. Every few days, he had to figure out where to shower and clean his clothes so he could stay healthy and feel human. Keeping his belongings safe was also a constant worry – his tent, his clothes, his ID could be stolen at any time. Even staying connected was a struggle. James had to hunt for places to charge his phone because without a charged phone, he couldn’t call The Care Service or search online for the help he needed. On top of all of that, James had to manage a serious medical condition without a stable place to rest.
With the support of The Care Service, James applied for disability benefits to supplement his Social Security check. His Case Manager also helped him search for an apartment within his budget, and The Care Service covered the security deposit so James could move in right away.
Today, James has a safe roof over his head. He is in good health, and he is paying it forward, helping others experiencing homelessness and connecting them to the resources that changed his own life.