Working Together to Help Those in Need
In the summer of 2023, our team had the privilege of helping a 63-year-old man whose life had been upended by circumstances beyond his control. Wheelchair-bound for over three decades due to rheumatoid arthritis, he was evicted from his home after falling behind on rent. Living on limited Social Security Disability Income, he found himself homeless, forced to live in the woods nearby.
When one of our staff members met him on the street near our New Britain offices, his need for immediate help was clear. Without access to a stable home, he couldn’t properly refrigerate or take his medication—an essential step toward stabilizing his health and securing employment. While he had independently acquired a Housing Choice Voucher to cover rent, finding an accessible apartment was a significant barrier.
Our Property Manager quickly determined that he qualified for one of our apartments that is specifically designated for individuals aged 55+ or with physical disabilities. These apartments are thoughtfully designed for accessibility, and a unit was set to become available soon.
However, the process of preparing the apartment and coordinating the required Section 8 inspection would take several weeks. Recognizing the urgency of his situation, our team sprang into action to find a temporary solution. One of our Housing Counselors collaborated with the Property Manager to connect with local community resources.
Thanks to the kindness of a local church, we secured a safe, rent-free space for him to stay while we worked on readying the apartment. Within two weeks, the unit was inspected, prepared, and ready for him to move in.
"I am so thankful to the NHS Greater New Britain for all that they have given me, because without them I would not be where I'm at today."
Now, with stable, affordable housing and the ability to take his medication consistently, his health has dramatically improved. He’s no longer confined to a wheelchair and can walk with the help of a walker. Even more inspiring, he is optimistic about his future—looking forward to finding a job and reconnecting with his family and grandchildren.
