Shari has three children ages 12, 10 and 5. The 10-year-old has limited speech and is on the Autism Spectrum. Shari was living in a shelter and was not enrolled in any services prior to coming to Options.
“When I first came to Options Rapid Rehousing Program (RRH) things were very rough. I just felt so helpless. My world was out of control, and I felt lost and alone. Then things started getting better with the help of Nadia, my Housing Specialist. Nadia helped me to find my voice. She never ignored me or said what I wanted to hear. She said what I needed to hear to get my life back on track. It was a relief to know that I wasn’t alone. Now I can advocate for myself. I was able to get in contact with the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) and get services for my son. I am now enrolled in a health insurance plan so I can get the therapy and help that I need. Everything is falling in line so nicely. I am very thankful for Options for Community Living. Thank you so much. I am getting everything that I need to improve my life”.
Shari received a housing voucher that allowed her to secure a three-bedroom apartment in western Nassau County. New to the community, Nadia connected Shari with school and community resources in the area.