First Day: Post 7

Those who are chronically homeless have been homeless for a year or longer. The chronically homeless are the most vulnerable amongst the homeless population. A chronically homeless person becomes more and more detached from society the longer they are out on the streets because they are not treated as if they are a part of the community. Many also struggle with disabilities or physical illness. Their health deteriorates the longer they go without health care which will usually lead them to have behavioral problems.  At the point where somebody becomes chronically homeless many think that it is too late to help them, but it is never to help them turn their situation around.

The Whittier First Day Coalition has proved that anybody can turn their lives around as long as they truly want to and will do whatever it takes to do it. The organization has had people who were once chronically homeless go through their Recovery from Homelessness Program and successfully get back on their feet and become a part of the community.

One 50-year-old Hispanic male came into First Day with many health issues and was chronically ill. He had been on the streets for six years and lost contact with his family. First Day was able to provide him with housing and gave him the medical care he needed. In the end he left First Day with his health intact. He obtained Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and was able to be reunited with his family.