What a difference a day makes. Like many people affected by pandemic-related income loss and the rising cost of housing, Michelle had been struggling to pay her rent. She realized that she had to call for help to avert a crisis. Michelle applied for emergency rental assistance from a local nonprofit organization and her application was approved.
Relieved to know help was on the way, she contacted her property management company, which was willing to wait for the payment. So, she waited and waited. With no word about her case, Michelle became worried. After more than three weeks with no news, she contacted the nonprofit and was told they were no longer processing her case and referred her to Maricopa County’s Human Services Department. At this point, Michelle’s rent was more than a month late, and she was notified that the eviction process was imminent.
Shawn Porter, a client services specialist in the Community Services Division of Maricopa County’s Human Services Department was assigned to Michelle’s case. Learning about the urgency of the situation, Shawn knew that he had to act fast to keep Michelle and her family in their home. In just one day, he was able to provide her with the documentation of assistance that saved Michelle and her from being locked out of their apartment.
Michelle said she was grateful that Shawn was professional and acted with integrity. He did what he said he would and kept in constant communication. He truly understood the urgency of her situation and worked to help the family remain in their home. Shawn’s fast action saved the day.
If you or someone you know can benefit from the assistance programs provided by Maricopa County’s Human Services Department, visit Maricopa.gov/HelpWithBills.