$100 Prevention From Ending Decades of Homelessness

Pictured: Ron (left) and Daniel (right) holding the keys to their new apartment

For over two decades, Ron experienced homelessness prior to moving to California. While staying at a shelter, he held the responsibility of caring for his brothers until they passed away. Reeling from their passing, Ron sought out DST for support services and a sense of community. 

Ron joined DST and showed great leadership skills. He not only showed up for others but continued to show up for himself. When he was finally able to obtain a housing voucher, Ron was challenged in finding a residence that would accept him before the voucher expired.   

After a period away from the program and receiving Social Security Income (SSI), he returned to DST seeking a fresh start and reconnected with a Case Manager who he had met at his shelter five years prior. His Case Manager took a chance on a housing opportunity that required two tenants. Ron mentioned that he had a longtime friend from the shelter, Daniel, with whom he had spent years together during the COVID pandemic.  

After applying for the unit, Ron and Daniel were informed that they received $100 too much to qualify for the rental. DST staff decided that $100 would not be the barrier to providing housing for these resilient individuals, who had waited 20-25 years for the peace of mind that comes with a safe and stable home. The staff collaborated with their partners at the City of Modesto to navigate the qualification system for individuals receiving SSI, working tirelessly to find a solution. 

The relentless effort to secure housing for Ron, combined with his perseverance, became a turning point that resulted in Ron and Daniel finally having a place to call home. A call for move-in donations on social media sparked an outpouring of community support, reaching even Ron's distant daughter, who heard the life-changing news. Today, the two friends-turned-roommates have found stability and are focusing on their health and strengthening their family relationships. This success story is a testament to DST’s values of grit and perseverance to never give up.