By Tabitha Adeleke, Case Manager
Our client Marvin Richter (fictitious name) contacted Community Legal Aid SoCal (CLA SoCal) in January for assistance with an eviction matter. Following an assessment of his situation, a CLA SoCal Housing Unit advocate determined Mr. Richter, who is disabled, needed immediate housing support and submitted a referral to us, the Case Management Unit.
When I began working with him to address his housing crisis, I learned from him that he had already received a move-out date and was facing imminent displacement. Due to his disability and the emotional impact of the situation, Mr. Richter was struggling to take the necessary steps to secure alternative housing. I, along with supervising case manager Griselda Sierra, maintained communication with him and provided supportive counseling regarding his housing situation. We discussed the urgency of relocating and helped him understand the available options to prevent homelessness.
A viable temporary solution
Although Mr. Richter was unwilling to enter a shelter setting, he expressed that a motel placement would be an acceptable temporary solution while he searched for permanent housing. I immediately began contacting housing resources and service providers within his residential area. Through collaboration with the Homeless Engagement Services of his city, I was able to secure motel vouchers for him, ensuring he had a safe place to stay during this transition period should he decide to use them.
I and the Homeless Engagement Services team continued to provide Mr. Richter with housing navigation services and assisted him with exploring available rental opportunities. Through ongoing support and advocacy, he was able to secure multiple options for permanent housing and is actively pursuing permanent housing options within his community.
With the support of CLA SoCal’s Case Management team and while his legal case was addressed, Mr. Richter was able to avoid immediate homelessness, access temporary shelter, and take meaningful steps toward obtaining stable, long-term housing.
