Testimonial Details

Ms. Joan

Joan came to Interfaith Partnership for the Homeless after being removed from her home in Preston Hollow, NY. by Albany County’s Adult Protective Services.  She and her late husband had resided there for close to 30 years.  The home fell on disrepair after he became ill and Miss. Joan was unable to keep up with much needed repairs and cleaning.  Albany County Adult Protective Services coordinated plans for her to have her water pump replaced and her home cleaned with limited success. 

Staff at Interfaith Partnership for the Homeless helped Miss. Joan complete an application for The Rural Housing Assistance Programs. However this program did not want to invest in her home due to her age, feeling that she would not be able to maintain her home.

It took Miss Joan over 3 months to accept the reality that she would not be able to reside in her home.  It was difficult for her to view the available senior housing apartment choices available to her and insisted on the rural setting she was accustomed to.  Case managers at the shelter worked with her while she pulled things together.  Joan followed the Emergency Shelter guidelines, walked downtown to get her medications, stayed in contact with her siblings, read the newspaper everyday, participated in life skills groups and the offering of social activities. Miss Joan takes great pride in her appearance and continues to apply her makeup daily and style her hair fashionably.  In addition, she maintained her sense of humor. 

Miss Joan moved into her apartment at Civil Senor Apartments in Coeymans Hollow.  Staff and volunteers helped her move in and made sure she had a bed, kitchen table, couch, etc.  Many of the employees at Interfaith contributed items to Miss. Joan for her new place. 

Miss. Joan continued to work with Interfaith for ongoing support with bank accounts, acquiring photo identification, enrolling at Senior Services, getting an advocate to aid her in selling her home and setting up cable and applying for the Section-8 program.  To date, Miss Joan continues to be involved with the agency was delighted to share her story with all!