Family support Program Summer News

 June & July Highlights
Our Family Support Program continues to make a difference in residents’ lives across our communities. In recent months, we’ve seen how many residents face challenges that often go unaddressed by other providers—such as low literacy, the complexities of aging, and serious health conditions. By building trust and offering steady support, advocacy, and connection, we help residents navigate these barriers and remain safely housed. Here are a few stories from June and July that illustrate this impact.

Supporting Stability at Home
One Addison County mother, raising three teenagers on her own, was referred for help after an inspection revealed that housekeeping issues were creating potential health and fire safety hazards in her apartment. Through consistent check-ins, she’s tackled the work step by step—starting with the kitchen, then the hallway, and beyond. With the right supplies, encouragement, and regular meetings, she’s making lasting progress ensuring a safe and healthy environment for her family. As she put it: “I really like our meetings and your support.”

Navigating Housing Paperwork
For one longtime resident who cannot read or write, the annual housing voucher recertification process felt overwhelming. By building a supportive relationship, our staff were able to help him gather the right documents, connect with Social Security, and keep his Section 8 voucher current—ensuring he didn’t lose his housing.

Another resident with a traumatic brain injury was struggling with back rent after not understanding a change in his subsidy. Usually hard to reach, he was able to bond with Family Support Coordinator Kaio over shared affection for Steven Segal movies, and together they were able to review his rental portion, apply for emergency assistance, and resolve the arrears. Today, he’s current on his rent and says simply: “I’m all set up now.”

Consistent Support for Seniors
At 85, one resident shared how overwhelming it can be to manage the annual recertification paperwork for affordable housing. For the past three years, our staff have been there each summer to guide her through gathering income documents and completing the process. That continuity makes it possible for her to remain safely housed and stress-free.

Moving to Vermont and Starting Fresh
A newer resident who recently relocated from another state needed help transferring her Medicare benefits to Vermont and paying a security deposit after moving in. She hadn’t felt comfortable reaching out to other providers, but she connected easily with our Family Support staff. With support, she was able to secure financial assistance and settle into her new home with confidence.

Adjusting to New Health Needs
One former farmer, recently retired, was hospitalized this summer and now requires a first-floor apartment. Our team helped him get on the waitlist for an accessible unit and secure a reasonable accommodation request. Though he misses farm life, he’s adjusting with a positive spirit and is grateful to have advocacy and support as his needs change.

Home Repair Impact
This summer, our team helped residents access more than $20,000 in Manufactured Housing Improvement and Repair (MHIR) program funding for health and safety investment. Projects included new flooring in living rooms and bathrooms, plumbing and shower repairs, and essential improvements like roofing, doors, and skirting. These repairs ensure that homes remain safe, livable, and secure for residents who might otherwise go without.

Thank you to all staff, partners, and community members who make this work possible. Together, we’re helping residents stay safe, stable, and supported in their homes.