Community Health Worker Connects Mother to Homeownership Support

Overview

A healthy pregnancy is one of the best ways to promote healthy families in Mecklenburg County. Yet, factors like economic stability, neighborhood and built environment, and access to health and social services can deteriorate health outcomes for expectant mothers and their children.

In 2021, A Guided Journey (AGJ) was launched in partnership with Symmetry Behavioral Health Systems and Mecklenburg County Public Health to reduce perinatal health disparities using the Community Health Worker (CHW) model. Through this program, women are linked to prenatal and postpartum care and other supportive services. It is also where, Jaylin*, a single mother in Mecklenburg County was able to find a path toward homeownership for her children.

*Actual name redacted and changed to protect client privacy.

Challenge

Jaylin was already raising one child on her own and expecting her second in Spring of 2022. At the time, Jaylin did not have stable housing for her family. She had hoped to find a home with a yard to ensure both of her children had a safe place to play, but wasn't sure how to start the home-buying process. After seeking support, Jaylin was enrolled in AGJ, where Karen was appointed as her CHW.

Solution

During the first home visit, Karen shared several programs that would help Jaylin achieve her homeownership goals. Together, they discussed topics such as: credit building, down payments, and choosing the right home. Karen listened attentively to Jaylin's needs, and shared multiple home assistance programs and resources that served Mecklenburg County.

Karen also empowered Jaylin to do her own research and contact the referred organizations with any additional questions about the homeownership process. Ultimately, Jaylin chose to enroll in two programs that will prep her for homeownership. First, being the Department of Housing and Urban Development Family Self-Sufficiency Program, a federal initiative that teaches individuals how to increase their earned income by building financial capability. Second, being the Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America Homeownership Program, another initiative that provides comprehensive counseling and training to purchase a home.

Results

Safe and stable housing is a key issue in maintaining economic stability. Without it, certain experiences may affect physical health and make it harder to access health and social care. Through AGJ, Karen was able to connect Jaylin to resources that best fit the needs of her family, where both programs are equipped to educate Jaylin with the necessary steps to secure stable housing for her family.

As Jaylin continues her journey towards homeownership, Karen will continue to provide ongoing support to ensure she achieves her goal.