Dino
When Dino was released from prison, he had nowhere to call home. For eighteen months he was homeless, living in a tent during the coldest winter on record. He contracted COVID, was put in a temporary quarantine shelter and, when deemed COVID free, he was again sent back to the streets. When he came to Better Lives RI for help, we immediately began working to find housing for him. With our usual persistence and advocacy, we were able to get him a housing voucher and we worked with Community Care Alliance in Woonsocket to find him an apartment. Six months after first coming to BLRI for help, we moved Dino into a safe, clean, and warm apartment. Dino continues to be thrive in his stable housing and is a very productive member of the community.
Richard
Richard had been homeless, off and on, for years due to his dependence on alcohol. He had worn out his welcome at the homes of friends and relatives, and when he came to Better Lives RI he was living in an unregistered car. Within two months, BLRI staff were able to find him a room to rent in a safe, reputable rooming house. With the ongoing support of the BLRI staff, he is still housed and is working on his sobriety.
Carol
Carol was unable to find housing due to her substance abuse issues. BLRI staff worked with her on a weekly and monthly basis for three years as she entered one rehab program after another but was unable to maintain her sobriety when released. When, at last, she found a program that worked for her, she was then able to focus on the future. We helped her find an apartment and furnish it. With regular support from our staff, Carol is now working and has been reunited with her child.
Kathy
Kathy was about to lose her housing because her partner died suddenly and she was unable to keep up the rent payments on her own. She called BLRI for assistance and the case manager who answered the call wanted to help her from becoming homeless. The case manager began the process of applying for social security; met with the landlord to plead her case; advocated for her in court, and was able to get a three month reprieve during which time the case manager feels her social security will commence and the Kathy will be able to stay in her apartment.
