Meet Karl: Palo Alto Team Member

Ten years ago, when Karl was 64, he had a disabling stroke and has been living on the streets of Palo Alto ever since. After a few short months of working with his Case Manager, Karl was able to overcome many barriers. He got a COVID vaccine, and then shortly thereafter, his Case Manager helped him get a really nice walker donated from a Palo Alto community member, which gave him increased mobility. His Case Manager also helped him obtain an official ID and social security card, open an email account and bank account, get access to public transportation, connect him to doctors, obtain food stamps and SSI, and find shelter.

In October 2021, we helped Karl get housing in a subsidized studio in a senior living community in Palo Alto only a few short months after submitting an application into the Section 8 interest lists in Santa Clara County. The Palo Alto Staff assisted him in getting all the furniture and supplies he needs to be comfortable and happy in his new home. He has a balcony where he sits outside every day and waves to people passing by on the sidewalk and to his neighbors below in the community gardens.

Since he has been housed, his DST Case Manager has connected him to IHSS (In-Home Supportive Services) and senior supportive services such as Avenidas and Meals on Wheels. Within three months, Karl went from living on the streets with nothing, to being safe, healthy, and warm in his own studio apartment, which is nothing short of incredible. Karl repeatedly tells his Case Manager and his other advocates,

“God bless you. You are beautiful. Life is beautiful.”