By Buddingh & Associates, Inc., Trib Local, Darien
The recession has taken its toll on the nation’s economy with 12.7 million people unemployed, according to recent statistics. Losing a job can have a domino effect, sometimes even resulting in homelessness. When her company went out of business, paramedic Genie Meenan was not only out of work, but eventually had no place to live until she contacted DuPage PADS (Public Action to Deliver Shelter). Located in Wheaton, DuPage PADS has helped the homeless live better lives since 1985. Unfortunately, Meenan’s situation grew more serious when she became ill with cancer and was hospitalized.
Over more than 25 years, DuPage PADS has expanded its network of services to include assistance for clients who need recuperative care after surgery or illness. PADS Case Manager Tim Paul said he links clients to services offered by DuPage County including housing, Medicaid and the Department of Human Services.
