Ah, sorry for the late posting on this... I disappeared into the woods of New Hampshire for two days and my mind just returned back to normal.
Anyway! Advocacy clinic! Tyler and I worked with Junia on Thursday, and before I tell the rest of the story, I'll tell the ending -- she left smiling.
Junia came in with her daughter on Thursday. She had been trying to get into contact with different landlords, with no luck. She expressed to us how worried she feels about losing her home.. with girls aged 11 and 17, I would too. Its different to accept being homeless if its just you, its so much more different once you have children you care about.
So, we looked for some more places for her. None are really perfect, but I think leaving the office with a few pieces of paper made her happy. Also, Carly suggested that we help her draft an e-mail template that she could send to different landlords in case they didn't respond to phone calls as much as e-mails. I feel that this will really help Junia, and make her feel that she is doing everything possible to protect her family (which at this point, she is). Jewish Family Children Services was willing to give her a small amount of money, but no huge miracle has helped her yet.
On the way out, Junia looked satisfied but still sad. I asked her for a hug and we hugged it out. I honestly think that helped. Sometimes if you believe in people they begin to believe (or re-believe) in themselves, too. We didn't find her a new apartment or take care of her rent, but we did help lift her spirits just a little. I'm okay with that.
Have a happy fourth of July everyone!
-Fiona
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