Deanne is a Costa Mesa senior woman who spent nearly eight years living in her car with relatives.
Recently, she became severely ill and was hospitalized. The staff at the hospital reached out to Costa Mesa’s community outreach team and through collaborative efforts, Deanne was able to successfully move into the Bridge Shelter.
Initially, Deanne was extremely hesitant and reluctant to stay at the shelter because she was alone and without her relatives, since they did not want to move with her to the shelter. She even experienced panic attacks due to this.
Shelter staff and Mercy House site coordinators spent a great deal of time working with Deanne to make her comfortable and to gain her trust. They reassured her that she was safe at the Shelter and that they worked tirelessly to find housing that would accommodate senior homeless residents.
As this was happening, Deanne unfortunately lost control of her bank account, so the shelter staff helped her get a new ID and a new bank account. She now has enough money to pay for health insurance and she also has the ability to save money as well, which will go towards her housing.
Deanne continues her stay at the shelter, in a safe and supportive surrounding, as shelter staff works to find her a stable place to live.
Congratulations Deanne on your recent commitment and stabilization and for working towards housing!
For more information and/or to donate to the Bridge Shelter, visit our website here or contact the shelter operators by calling 714-836-7188 ext. 222, or click here.