Florence's Story

Florence is about 60 years old. She worked for many years while enduring domestic violence. A few years ago, she made the break and escaped her abuser. Lately, Florence has been sleeping on a couch at her son’s apartment here in Hopkins. This is in spite of the fact that she has a debilitating injury and lives in constant pain as a result of a physical assault. 

Florence has just become eligible for disability payments and is now eager to find a place of her own. She walks into ResourceWest, shares her story with the Project Starfish Coordinator, and demonstrates her emotional strength. She doesn’t ask for pity but for understanding, resources and support in taking the steps toward independence.

Using the resources of Housing Link, Florence starts to make phone calls to prospective landlords. She is very respectful and truthful as she uses the center’s phone to talk to landlords and set up appointments. After many calls, she leaves, happy to have found a few places to check out.

After a few days, Florence reappears. She has found a place to live but doesn’t have sufficient funds for the first month’s rent and deposit. Now what? She isn’t eligible for emergency assistance from Hennepin County, so she meets with the case manager from ICA and is approved for the necessary funds. Eighty percent of Florence’s disability payment goes toward her rent, but she is elated to have her own place. In turn, Florence volunteers at ResourceWest, attends school, and takes care of her grandchildren as needed.

Florence is in and out of the hospital and remains a friend of ResourceWest. We have built an ongoing relationship with her. We are a touchpoint for her, as she is for us. We care about Florence, and if we haven’t seen or heard from her for awhile, we check in with her.

Occasionally, she needs a little something -- a bag, of food, some gas money, etc. We are glad for the generous community that enables the our center to fill in the gaps for Florence and others like her. We have made a long-term difference in Florence’s life.