Retaining Housing and Securing SSI for People with Developmental Disabilities

Housing Choices Resident Coordinator, Melody, in her office at Monterey Villa where she supports people with developmental disabilities in retaining their housing, achieving financial stability, and fostering a sense of inclusivity.

Choosing Empathy: How Melody Offers Compassion in the Battle Against Homelessness

Melody harmonizes her work with the power of empathy. As a Resident Coordinator at Housing Choices, her impact extends far beyond routine paperwork and administrative tasks; she plays a pivotal role in the lives of the residents she serves, helping them maintain their housing and achieve stability.

She supports her residents on-site at Edenvale Supportive Housing and Monterey Villa in San Jose, assisting with recertification appointments, managing work orders, and collaborating closely with ILS agencies and service coordinators. Unlike conventional scripted phone check-ins, Melody's on-site workflow enables her to interact with her clients and develop a deeper connection, creating an environment where they feel comfortable opening up about their challenges and needs.

"Sometimes they do not feel comfortable approaching property management or service workers. So, seeing me on site and welcoming me into their homes... it helps them open up, and it helps me get to know them better," expressed Melody.

One of the most recent heartwarming moments for Melody was supporting a client through a difficult time when he was taken off Supplemental Security Income (SSI). People living on a fixed government income, especially those with developmental disabilities, are more vulnerable to significantly amplified distress from unsettling news about financial changes and instability.

Here's where Melody's compassionate nature came into play. She comforted her resident, consistently assuring him that a strong support network was actively working to address the challenges he faced. She met with him almost weekly in person, providing solace and fostering a trusting environment where he could freely express his thoughts and concerns. Concurrently, Melody collaborated with his service coordinator to petition for the reinstatement of his SSI and maintenance of his housing.

Through her dedicated efforts, Melody succeeded in not only reinstating the client's SSI but also securing approval for emergency rental assistance. The immense sense of relief beaming from her client was a testament to the difference she made in his life.

"It kind of took a big relief off of him. He came to me and was just smiling like ‘Oh Thank You’," smiled Melody.

The experience served as a reminder of how easily vulnerable populations, such as people with developmental disabilities, can unjustly fall into the crevices of homelessness. Melody further emphasizes that among Housing Choices clients, many were formerly homeless and continue to face challenges in maintaining their housing as they transition from life on the streets and its associated habits and mentality.

"There are people who struggle with developmental disabilities and are homeless, and it’s not because they deserve it," advocates Melody. "It can be difficult for a lot of them."

Melody adds that homelessness is not always a consequence of personal choices but can often be a clue to the systemic gaps that society must address. Her work, characterized by empathy and understanding, actively breaks barriers of judgment and stigma, striving to bridge the gap between individuals facing hardships and the support they truly deserve. Melody passionately encourages others to join movements that pave the way towards a more inclusive and compassionate future.