Joe’s journey to stable housing has been a long and challenging one, marked by years of uncertainty and temporary living situations. Deaf and communicating through American Sign Language, Joe has faced unique hurdles that added to the strain of his search for a permanent home. With the support of his Boone County Family Resources Support Coordinator Rachel Wiegman, his sister Angie, and the services of LOVE Columbia, Joe’s life has taken a positive turn. Today, he’s living in an apartment he can finally call home, and it’s a transformation that has made him feel happier and healthier than he’s been in years.
Over the past three years, Joe worked closely with Rachel to navigate the task of finding stable housing. She knew how important it was for him to stay in Columbia—where he had access to critical services, including his doctors and the hospital. Rachel also understood the importance of finding a living situation that was both affordable and accessible, as the high cost of rent and utilities had been a major barrier in the past and Joe uses a wheelchair to get around.
“At one time I lived in a mobile home and the electric was outrageous, like $700/month,” said Joe. “All the bills drained my income where I was landing with maybe fifty bucks at the end of the month. It’s impossible to live on that.”
Rachel connected Joe with LOVE Columbia who helped him find an apartment that not only fit his budget but also suited his needs. “They helped me find the apartment and also provided furnishings like the couch and recliner,” Joe explains. His new apartment has features like a roll-in shower and extra storage space, making it more accessible and comfortable for him.
Angie, Joe’s sister, has been another essential part of his support system. She helped Joe move into his new apartment, checking in on him weekly to ensure everything was going smoothly.
When Joe found out he got the apartment, he said, “My sister called me and said, hey, you’re in and I was jumping for joy. I was so happy.”
Having a stable home has made all the difference in Joe’s life. “I definitely feel better being here in an apartment, in a real home, compared to living in hotels and motels,” he said. “Those places were horrible. I don’t want to live like that anymore.”
Rachel has noticed a significant change in Joe since he moved into his new home. “His attitude has changed so much. He’s so much happier,” she said.
Joe agrees, adding with a chuckle, “I was pretty grumpy back in the day.”
The transition to stable housing has not only improved Joe’s living situation, but it has also helped him build a sense of independence. He has learned how to use a video phone, which helps him to connect with friends and family in a way he hadn’t been able to before.
Thanks to the hard work and dedication of Rachel, Angie, and the team at LOVE Columbia, Joe is now living the life he always deserved—a stable home that he can be proud of, filled with comfort, security and support.