When JT, a senior citizen and guest of the Norristown Hospitality Center, needed critical surgery on both of his eyes, he faced a significant obstacle: the surgery center required that a trusted individual escort him home after the procedure, something JT, who is experiencing homelessness, couldn’t readily provide. Determined to find a solution, JT turned to the Hospitality Center staff for assistance.
Recognizing the urgency of JT’s situation and the potential risks of relying on a ride-share service for post-operative care, the Center’s staff, particularly intern Matt Benjamin, stepped in to help. Matt diligently connected JT with several community partners to address his needs.
First, Matt worked with Oak Street Health to enroll JT in Medicare Part B, expanding his access to essential healthcare services. He then collaborated with Street Medicine, a local organization providing healthcare to individuals experiencing homelessness. Street Medicine not only arranged medical transportation to and from the surgery center but also secured a temporary stay at a motel for JT, ensuring he had a safe place to recover.
The Hospitality Center also played a crucial role in JT’s recovery, providing transportation to the motel and supplying him with food for the week. This collaborative effort ensured that JT received the necessary care and support throughout his recovery journey.
“We are thrilled that JT had a successful surgery and has fully recovered,” said Mike Kingsley, caseworker at the Norristown Hospitality Center. “This situation highlights the complex challenges faced by individuals experiencing homelessness when accessing healthcare. We are proud of our staff, especially Matt Benjamin, for his dedication to removing barriers and advocating for JT’s well-being.”
JT’s story is a testament to the power of community partnerships and the impact of dedicated individuals who go the extra mile to help those in need. The collaborative efforts of the Hospitality Center, Oak Street Health, and Street Medicine ensured that JT received the critical care he needed, ultimately improving his quality of life.
