Success Stories from the Field

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 One of our clients at the City Mission Homeless Shelter faced an extraordinary challenge: finding size 16 shoes. Despite tirelessly searching through local clothing pantries and thrift stores, he came up empty-handed. That’s when our dedicated team sprang into action with a brilliant idea. We reached out to the Cleveland Cavaliers, and they responded with incredible generosity, donating not just one, but two pairs of size 16 shoes! This act of kindness has made a world of difference. A heartfelt thank you to the Cleveland Cavaliers for their unwavering support and generosity!

Michael C-CHW

I first met Ms. Arvonna at a crowded homeless shelter, where her husband and their six children accompanied her. The family, despite their challenging circumstances, radiated warmth and resilience. After speaking with Ms. Arvonna, I began assisting her with the necessary steps to cancel her Medicaid benefits in Michigan, a crucial first move in helping her transition to a new support system.

Once that was completed, we focused on applying for Medicaid and SNAP benefits in Cleveland, where the family was trying to establish themselves. I guided her through the detailed process, helping to gather and submit the required documentation to support her case. It was a long, emotional journey, but after several weeks of waiting and following up, Ms. Arvonna and her family were officially approved for both programs.

Not long after, Ms. Arvonna was able to secure stable housing for her family. Today, they are settled into their new home, and she reports they are thriving in their new environment.

Theresa C-CHW

I met a resilient 46-year-old gentleman at the Men’s Shelter who had lost both his legs. He needed assistance getting fitted for new prosthetic legs, enrolling in Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, and obtaining a government phone. His diabetes had severely impacted his health, necessitating additional appointments for vision care, follow-ups with his primary care physician, and much-needed dental work.

The journey to fit his new prosthetic legs required numerous appointments, but his determination never wavered. Finally, he was able to pick up his new legs and transition from the shelter to his apartment! Witnessing his transformation and newfound independence was incredibly rewarding. This experience underscores the profound impact of providing comprehensive support to those in need!

Ginny C-CHW

I first met Luis in October 2017 at the 2100 Men’s Shelter. At that time, he was fragile and unsure of how to navigate life in a shelter after his lengthy prison stay. Luis faced multiple health issues and struggled to navigate the healthcare system on his own. As a Community Health Worker for Carmella Rose, I often encounter individuals like Luis. I was able to assist him in enrolling in Medicaid, arranging appointments with a gastroenterologist, and securing much-needed dental work.

Now, Luis is taking charge of his health and volunteers in the shelter’s work program. Recently, he interviewed for a job outside the shelter and was hired! He has come a long way, appearing more confident and self-assured. I am honored and happy to have played a small part in helping him get his life and health in order, enabling him to become a productive resident of our city. 

Janice C-CHW

In July, we encountered a young woman, around 20 years old, at Bishop Cosgrove who had lost her Medicaid coverage. She was in desperate need of glasses and had been without routine medical care for quite some time. We immediately stepped in to help her regain Medicaid, find a medical home, and address her vision needs.

In a remarkable twist of fate, she reappeared at a women’s homeless shelter in September, now seeking help with a pregnancy. Thanks to our early intervention and medical care, we were able to provide her with much-needed prenatal care, ensuring a healthy pregnancy. Our efforts in assisting this young woman have not only improved her health but will also benefit the new life she is bringing into the world. This is a powerful testament to the profound impact we can have on individuals’ lives.

Theresa C-CHW

 Ms. Monique, a mother of seven, was starting life anew in a different state. We first met her in November when she arrived at a food pantry site, desperately seeking food and baby formula for her children. During a brief conversation, we learned that she and her children had been in Ohio for about four months. She had just found a home for her family but lacked basic essentials like furniture, blankets, washcloths, and towels.

In December 2018, the Carmella Rose Health Foundation nominated Ms. Monique’s family for the Minority Health Alliance’s (MHA) Christmas Family program. On December 21st, a staff member from Carmella Rose delivered the items the organization had purchased for Ms. Monique and her children. These included clothing for the entire family, a diaper bag with diapers and baby wipes for the two youngest members, and a pack-and-play for the baby to have a safe place to sleep.

The family’s reaction was heartwarming; they were overjoyed and deeply grateful for the assistance. Witnessing their relief and happiness was incredibly rewarding and underscored the profound impact of community support and generosity. This experience highlights the importance of coming together to help those in need, making a tangible difference in their lives.

Theresa C-CHW