Quiana could not make ends meet to pay her utility bill, even with the CalWorks and food stamps benefits she was receiving. A mother of two young children, a baby daughter and Avery, her 2 ½ year old son, Quiana had to quit her job because her son’s hyperactivity and unpredictable behavior made it difficult to find someone to care for him. The family doctor did not take her concerns seriously, saying, “boys are more active and he will grow out of it, so let’s just wait and see.”
One sleepless night, after receiving yet another “past due” utility bill notice, Quiana turned to 211 LA for help. Within 60 seconds, she was assisted by Vicky, a 211 LA Information and Referral Specialist, who provided information on the financial assistance Quiana was seeking. When Vicky found out that Quiana was the mother of two young children, Vicky also offered an opportunity to complete a parent questionnaire with a 211 LA Care Coordinator.
“When I was offered the parent questionnaire, I jumped at the opportunity,” Quiana remembers. “I knew something was not completely right with my son. I did not know where to start or what to do with my concerns and felt alone in my struggle.”
How 211 Helped Turn Crisis into Hope Irene, a trained 211 LA Care Coordinator, conducted the developmental screening and found Quiana’s son to be at risk for a developmental delay. Irene provided Quiana information on programs and services available for Avery and set up a three-way phone call with Quiana and the federally-funded, community early intervention program for the following day. Within 45 days, Avery was determined eligible for services with both the early intervention program and with an Early Head Start program. Quiana, who was very isolated, was also connected to the Magnolia Place Community Initiative, a hub of early childhood service providers within walking distance from her home. Magnolia Place works to build resiliency for children in low-income communities to grow healthy and thrive.
“It has been so rewarding for me as a 211 LA Care Coordinator working with Quiana. Not only see Avery’s significant progress with his speech and behavior,” says Irene, “but to also watch Quiana become a parent leader in her own neighborhood and an ambassador to the Magnolia Place Community Initiative.”
“Both Vicky and Irene were caring, compassionate and assisted me like no one else has before. I cannot believe how one simple phone call did so much for me, my son, and my family,” Quiana recalls. “211 LA is there to provide hope during life’s toughest times. 211 LA is a Godsend.”
Submission type:
By: Patricia
