Interview: A Case Manager’s Perspective on Transformative Support

Mission Matters: Could you share a client story from the rapid rehousing program that left a lasting impression?

Case Manager: Absolutely. One case that stands out involves a courageous young mother who joined our program in January 2023. At just 26 years old, she was living with her two young children, both under the age of five. As we got to know her better, we uncovered the depth of her past experiences with domestic violence. It became clear that she needed additional resources to heal and rebuild her life.

Mission Matters: What were some of the initial challenges the young mother faced?

Case Manager: Initially, she found refuge in a shelter, a safe haven from her past. It took about a month and a half to secure an apartment within her price range, a significant milestone in her journey. During this time, she was actively seeking work, demonstrating her determination to provide for her family. She received crucial support through SNAP benefits and DSS rental payment assistance. We are also in the process of securing additional cash assistance from DSS to further stabilize her situation.

Mission Matters: How did you support her through these challenges?

Case Manager: This was my first experience working with a woman in this way, and it showed me the special problems people with housing issues face. She moved back to Monroe County from another state to get away from her children’s father, who was threatening her and sometimes got physical. I helped her understand the court hearings she needed to go to, like getting a stay-away order. It wasn’t until she settled into her new apartment that she started to talk about her past, especially after a scary new incident where her children’s father showed up at her new home. This made her scared again and showed how much she still needed help and protection.

Mission Matters: What ongoing support does she receive?

Case Manager: We ensure she has the resources needed to attend all her court hearings, secure permanent housing assistance through DSS, and maintain her SNAP benefits. I stay in close contact, checking in at least twice a week to ensure she feels supported and safe.

Mission Matters: How has this case impacted you and the services provided by the Rapid Rehousing Program (SWIFT)?

Case Manager: This case expanded across the services provided by SWIFT, including rapid rehousing, domestic violence support, and permanent housing. Her story is a powerful reminder of the profound impact our support has on individuals and families in our community. Community contributions enable us to provide essential resources and assistance, such as collaborations with Willow Domestic Violence Center and The Legal Aid Society, to help survivors rebuild their lives and achieve their goals.

Mission Matters: Thank you for sharing this impactful story. It truly highlights the importance of the work being done.

Case Manager: Case Manager: Thank you for letting me share. Stories like these remind me why I do this work. Seeing someone rebuild their life and find hope again touches my heart deeply. It’s why I continue to work with the same devotion for all my clients.

To learn more about our S.W.I.F.T Community Housing Program and how we can support you or a loved one, visit our website: CLICK HERE