When Craig* first came to CIL, he had a range of issues that beset many people with disabilities. In addition to being homeless, Craig had physical as well as psychiatric disabilities. What’s more, the agencies designed to help him seemed to be overwhelming bureaucracies that he had neither the knowledge nor the ability to access. With no income, no home and only limited food sources, Craig felt that he was “at the end of his rope.”

Immediately upon speaking with him, CIL identified Craig’s most pressing needs and referred him to the counselors that could best assist him. A CIL housing counselor began working with Craig to tackle his housing problem. The counselor provided information about his housing rights and assistance programs, such as Section 8 subsidies and other programs that cover move-in costs and allowances. Through CIL, Craig accessed extensive listings of available rentals in the area. Craig’s counselor even contacted landlords on his behalf and negotiated rental fees and a lease agreement.

Additionally, a CIL counselor assisted Craig in recognizing the underlying self-esteem issues that kept him from meeting his basic needs. Armed with this new understanding, Craig learned how to navigate government bureaucracies and attain the public services that were available to him.

Within two weeks of working with a CIL counselor, Craig completed his long-term food stamp application and overcame his fear of applying for General Assistance. He now has a small cash income. He also learned how to apply for Social Security disability benefits, which provides him with necessary medical attention and medications.

Though Craig’s most urgent needs have long been met, he continues to use CIL as a valuable resource in his ongoing efforts to maintain his independence. And as his needs evolve, CIL will be there to assist him.

*The individual’s name and certain details of the testimonial have been changed to protect the privacy of the consumer.

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