Jillian’s Journey Home
“I had nothing when I came to DuPagePads. No home, no income and no direction,” Jillian shares.
A long time sufferer of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and depression, Jillian had filed for disability, but had not received any status update on her request. Additionally, she had recently gotten divorced and lost her home.
Not only did she not have any income, but she was in a legal battle for alimony from her husband.
“I have known depression my whole life, but this was an all-time low for me,” says Jillian.
Jillian began working with her DuPagePads case manager who provided assistance with her disability case and encouraged her to attend counseling sessions for her depression and PTSD.
She used DuPagePads Interim (Overnight) Housing program for meals and overnight housing, while continuing to work with her case manager. Jillian attended groups at the Client Service Center including Winner’s Circle, a support group, and Art Works, a workshop to encourage creativity and relieve stress.
“Once my disability income came in, I was no longer eligible for Medicaid. It was a roller-coaster of emotions, but DuPagePads was with me through it all,” Jillian reflects.
With her new income, DuPagePads was able to help Jillian find an apartment, however she lacked the savings required for the initial security deposit and first month’s rent. Fortunately, through DuPagePads newer Housing Now program she was able to receive the financial assistance she needed to move in.
Jillian shares, “I am so happy to be in my own home. I still make it a point to attend support groups at the Client Service Center.
My journey to housing felt like a battle, but DuPagePads was there for me the whole way – a stabilizing force and a tremendous support network.”