Support for Homeless Elders
An Unexpected Experience with Homelessness
Bill has been a member of the St. Paul community for a long time and worked for years to support people experiencing homelessness in different ways. He served on the Board of Directors for Westside Community Health (now known as Minnesota Community Care), volunteered regularly, and became familiar with services available to people facing homelessness.
In the Spring of 2019, Bill’s apartment flooded after heavy rains and snowmelt, and homelessness was something he began to experience himself. Bill and other residents of his building were forced to evacuate, and he had nowhere to go and couldn’t afford a new apartment. Fortunately, Bill knew where to turn for resources. Even with that knowledge, he was unprepared for the challenges he now faced. “I didn’t think it would happen to me,” Bill admitted, “but I knew what to do.”
Bill turned to Catholic Charities for help. At Dorothy Day Place in St. Paul, Bill found shelter, dignity, and hope. The facility provided meals, laundry services, and compassionate care. Bill had the support needed to rebuild his life.
Catholic Charities Homeless Elders Program
After staying at the overnight shelter at Dorothy Day Place for several months, Bill found the Homeless Elders program. The Homeless Elders team provides case management to people over the age of 60 who are experiencing homelessness. The program helps elders get connected to resources, housing, and other supportive services to assist with successful independent living.
Through the Homeless Elders program, Bill met with Dani, his case manager. Her empathy and guidance helped him regain stability and plan for the future. “She comes to you and gets to be your friend,” Bill said. “Dani saw me.”
“Transition is difficult the older you get – change is not easy,” Bill said. “but Dorothy Day Place is fantastic for any individual . . . tell them what you need, and they’ll help you.”
Personalized Support for Vulnerable Neighbors
Bill’s path to stability was not without further obstacles. As he began to find his footing, the COVID-19 pandemic upended his plans. Catholic Charities relocated vulnerable neighbors, including Bill, from shelters to hotels for safety.
Dani’s personalized approach made Bill feel valued and supported as he worked toward rebuilding his life. With her help, he transitioned into permanent housing, a milestone that surprised Bill with its efficiency. “Transition is difficult the older you get – change is not easy,” Bill said. “But Dorothy Day Place is fantastic for any individual . . . tell them what you need, and they’ll help you.”
Catholic Charities’ Homeless Elders program is a lifeline for individuals like Bill. This program addresses the unique challenges faced by older adults experiencing homelessness, who often struggle with physical health issues, limited financial resources, and the emotional toll of displacement.