Peter's Path to Permanent Housing

Three years ago, Peter was struggling to make ends meet. Recognizing his need for help, a compassionate coworker suggested he reach out to Abode’s Opportunity Center in Palo Alto. Taking this advice, Peter contacted Abode, which in turn, recommended he connect with HomeFirst. 

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Following the referral and intake process, Peter received assistance at HomeFirst’s Sunnyvale Shelter, a place that became his home as he worked to improve his financial stability. Peter was employed while living at the shelter, leaving at 7am and taking the bus to and from work. His resilience and dedication to his job did not go unnoticed by shelter staff. They believed he was a good fit for HomeFirst’s Rapid Rehousing Program, a program that offers time-limited rental assistance and other supportive services designed to get people back to self-sufficiency. 

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With the help of the Rapid Rehousing Program, Peter secured a studio apartment, but unexpected health problems forced him to stop working, leaving him unable to afford his rent. HomeFirst supported Peter through this difficult period of health challenges and income loss. His Case Manager assisted him with the MediCal enrollment process and got him connected with a doctor. He also helped Peter apply for social security and disability, and additionally, helped him enroll in job readiness classes through JobTrain. Throughout this journey, Peter exhibited remarkable self-motivation and determination, consistently putting in the effort to overcome obstacles and work towards a brighter future. 

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With some income established, Peter and his Case Manager worked to secure a different apartment that better aligned with Peter’s new budget. The Rapid Rehousing program also paid Peter’s first month's rent and security deposit, which relieved some of the financial pressure associated with his move. 

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HomeFirst’s Rapid Rehousing Program provided the temporary support that Peter needed to become self-sufficient, as it connected him to the modern senior apartment in San Jose where he now lives and pays his own rent monthly. Peter’s story shows that with compassion and support from organizations like HomeFirst, individuals can regain their independence and financial stability.