Catholic Charities Yolo-Solano (CCYS) recently provided critical assistance to an elderly client with dementia, who was referred to the organization by his county Medi-Cal caseworker after losing his residential care. The client, in urgent need of food support, was struggling with an unstable living situation, adding immense stress to both him and his caretaker. Without access to food or a permanent home, the client’s situation was growing more desperate. Recognizing the urgency, CCYS promptly stepped in to assist the client with applying for CalFresh benefits, offering vital support during a challenging time.
CCYS worked closely with the client’s caretaker, who became his authorized representative, to navigate the CalFresh application process. As an authorized representative, the caretaker was able to act on the client’s behalf, handling key tasks like providing documents and communicating with caseworkers. CCYS ensured that all relevant medical expenses, including premiums, were properly documented and included in the application to maximize the client’s benefits. After submitting the application, the CCYS assister diligently followed up in the days and weeks that followed, as the case required additional verifications. The caretaker, who was already overwhelmed by managing multiple caseworkers, appreciated the extra support during this time. Having a point of contact at CCYS who was easily accessible for questions provided the caretaker with much-needed relief as they navigated this complex process. During one of the follow-ups, the CCYS assister advised the caretaker to inform the CalFresh eligibility worker about the client’s recent Medi-Cal application. This critical step allowed the CalFresh caseworker to access verifications that had already been submitted for Medi-Cal, eliminating the need to resubmit documents and expediting the approval process. As a result, the client’s CalFresh benefits were approved in record time.
CCYS's swift and collaborative approach created relief that was immediate for everyone involved in the client’s care. His caretaker, in particular, felt an immense burden lifted, knowing that food security was now one less concern. With his nutritional needs met, the focus could shift to resolving his housing situation. The thorough preparation, seamless collaboration, and diligent follow-up ensured that the application process was both efficient and stress-free, providing much-needed assistance during a difficult period. It serves as a powerful example of how timely, personalized assistance can make a lasting impact on both the individuals served and those supporting them.
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