One client who knocked on CRC’s door last year was a lovely woman named Zoraida. Referred to us by Healthcare Network (HCN), Zoraida’s primary care doctor was concerned that she was on the verge of homelessness.
Often, the first unmet need reveals a cascade of a dozen more. Zoraida’s rent was increasing, and she could not afford the difference. Distraught, she had no idea where to go.
A CRC caseworker, fluent in Spanish, worked one-on-one with Zoraida. We made an appointment for her with the Hunger and Homeless Coalition of Collier County. We helped her make an appointment to secure a voucher for a place to live through the Collier County Housing Authority.
The stress impacted Zoraida’s health. Her blood pressure spiked and she was hospitalized. She recovered just in time to make her appointment with the Collier County Housing Authority.
Once housed, CRC helped Zoraida acquire necessary items to make her apartment a home.
Zoraida’s struggles were not over. During this time, she was diagnosed with cancer. CRC connected her with the Cancer Alliance of Naples, and courageously, she battled back.
We are thrilled to share that Zoraida is doing well. She stops by CRC often to hand out hugs. Her gratitude for her home, her health, and her happiness, is deep and it is real.