Persistence is Key to SOAR Success

SOAR Success in Indiana

Dave was released from the Department of Corrections into homelessness three days after Christmas in 2023. He attempted to stay in one of the missions that provide a homeless men’s shelter, but was unable to stay after his symptoms led to an altercation with another guest. Fortunately, he remembered me from years past, and we were able to get him connected to ongoing mental health treatment.

Dave has lived with a severe mental illness that has left him unable to work for decades, and often leads to problems interacting with other people. He attempted to sleep in shelters, but was unable to handle the claustrophobic stress of such close quarters. Once engaged in treatment, Dave asked me to show him a safe place to sleep outdoors. He slept under a concrete overhang one block from the clinic for six months, in order to stay close to his doctors and homeless outreach/case management staff. Strenuous advocacy led to a placement for Dave in a Permanent Supportive Housing unit, where he lived with a donated bed and couch and a small radio.

We filed for SSI/SSDI on February 2nd, 2024, using the SOAR model. With enthusiastic support from his doctor and persistent follow-up, his case stretched out over many months, but was never denied. After countless calls to his DDB case manager and document submissions, we received a favorable decision on November 12, with a back payment of $10,373.00! He now has stable ongoing income to guarantee his housing on a long-term basis, and has used the back pay to buy some furniture and set up cable TV. He plans to live in his apartment for many years to come. 

SOAR may require some patience and follow-up, but it is effective! Persistence is key!