Sam* is friendly, sociable, and has many interests. He enjoys watching football, engaging in his fantasy football league, playing the piano, and cooking. Sam’s interests help him relax and distract when he is feeling stressed by life.
Sam grew up in Eastern Washington and had periods of homelessness throughout his youth. He was connected to supportive housing services to help support his path to independence. While in supportive housing, Sam received letters demanding money for various debts, including some he wanted to contest. His case manager referred him to LCYC’s Youth Homelessness Program to address the situation.
After connecting with YHP, Sam and his attorney discovered three separate debt issues to address: 1) responding to the Unemployment Security Department regarding an unemployment insurance denial and overpayment claim; 2) a demand from an insurance company stemming from an incident where Sam was hit by a car while riding his bike; and 3) medical bills related to the car accident. Sam and his attorney quickly got to work.
First, Sam worked with his attorney to appeal his unemployment denial. Though the deadline to appeal had passed, Sam and his attorney demonstrated that Sam was a person with a disability and deserved a reasonable accommodation allowing for a late appeal. The hearing went great and Sam was absolved of the responsibility to pay back overpayments. Further, Sam received payment for the weeks he applied for unemployment benefits and was denied.
Next, Sam and his attorney had to address the demand from the insurance company. Though Sam was hit and injured in this car accident, the other party’s insurance sought to have him pay for damages. Personal injury suits are outside of the YHP’s work, but Sam’s attorney sought and connected him with a personal injury attorney to represent him in this case.
Lastly, Sam and his attorney worked together to apply for Charity Care to address his medical expenses and outstanding debt.
Sam continues his path to independence without the weight of debts. Sam is excited to see what the future holds! Sam plans to take one of his favorite interests, cooking, and make it into a full-time career. He has been attending vocational training programs and is looking forward to starting the path to become a chef.
*The client’s name has been changed to protect their privacy. LCYC was given permission to share their story.