Every client that walks through the doors of Arab American Family Services, manages to find a way to inspire us and change the way we look at the world.
Recently, a 58-year-old client came for assistance. He had recently lost his job due to health issues that were causing him to lose his vision. With the events he had experienced, he was now forced to move in with his sister for assistance.
When he walked through our doors, we immediately noticed he was in distress. He informed his caseworker that he had no way of paying for his energy bills, which are close to $1,000. With a mounting energy bill, the client faced several bills that were far behind. Now relying on his sister for assistance, he informed us that he sister was struggling to help him with his rent and food. Seeing the pain the client was in, AAFS caseworkers immediately took action and drew up a plan to help this client in any way possible.
The caseworker applied for SNAP benefits for the client, to ensure that he would be able to purchase food and necessities. And since losing his job and his health insurance, the caseworker filled out the necessary paperwork to help him apply for medical benefits. We requested that the client bring in documents supporting his condition and as well as copies of his medical bills. An appointment was set for the following day.
When he returned the following day, an application for Residential Hardship Assistance was filled out and sent in to CEDA, to help with the past due balance. Also a CEDA Energy Assistance application was also filled out to help with the bills for the next year.
Two weeks later, he informed his AAFS caseworker that he was approved for the Residential Hardship Assistance and also for CEDA energy assistance.
He also said that he had a phone interview for the SNAP & Medical Card benefit and was approved and he was waiting for his Link and medical card to arrive in the mail.
It is stories like these that motivate us and keep us going strong. Our clients serve a purpose to us and the best ways to repay them is to be there for them during a time of need.
(708) 599-2237
