At Arab American Family Services, our dedication to our clients does not end with the response of, “I’m sorry, we can’t do anything else.” We are persistent and consistent and our goal is to help every client that walks through our doors.
Recently, we met a 52-year-old man who had fallen on hard times. His wife had passed away and he was left with just one son, 28. His current state left him unemployed, unable to work. He was battling Stage 4 pancreatic cancer.
His son had gone above and beyond to help his father but his father felt he can no longer tolerate being a burden on his son, regardless of his son’s willingness to help. He was almost in tears when explaining his situation, adding that his income was below the poverty level and that his income has kept him from visiting the doctor after his diagnosis.
He turned to AAFS, seeking help and assistance. He was unaware of all the services available to help him get back on his feet.
That is when caseworkers at AAFS stepped up to the plate, taking all necessary actions to ensure that he was given all the benefits he deserved.
He was able to apply for food stamps, as well as the medical card. He was relieved. Unfortunately, his happiness would not last long. A few weeks after submitting his information, he learned he was denied services. Once again, AAFS case workers made calls to the Department of Human Services, inquiring what the issue was. We were told that his income was too high to receive benefits. Recalling the initial meeting, case workers were aware that he was living in poverty, the only income he received was what his son had given him for food and shelter.
Unfortunately, the client had reported his son’s assistance as income of his own, unaware of the necessary procedures. With one call to DHS, AAFS was able to properly explain the situation to DHS. With the push needed to get the point across that the client was in dire need of medical assistance, his case was reopened.
A few weeks ago, AAFS received a call from the client, please to announce that he had gotten his benefits.
What made the situation better was when the client asked to come in to the office and personally thank his case worker for their persistence and not giving up on him.
At AAFS, advocacy for our clients is our priority. We do not settle for anything less for each client that walks through our doors. And that is what sets us apart from the rest.
(708) 599-2237
