After losing her job, Justice was unable to afford rent and quickly lost her housing. With no support or family to turn to, she fell into homelessness and found herself living in Skid Row. “No one should have to live in Skid Row. It’s a dangerous place to live, especially during the pandemic,” says Justice. While living in Skid Row, Justice suffered an accident that sent her to the emergency room. It was then that the doctors discovered she had lung cancer.

Justice was referred to Project Roomkey (PRK) because her medical condition made her especially vulnerable to serious complications should she contract COVID-19. While recovering at a PRK hotel, Justice was connected to The People Concern. Lauren, a Coordinated Entry System (CES) Housing Navigator with The People Concern, linked Justice to medical care, financial benefits and permanent housing options.

“Justice has this light that you don’t find in people on a regular basis. She shines from within as well as on the outside. I am so happy that she got this chance to start over,” says Lauren. Together, Justice and Lauren worked to overcome many obstacles and today, Justice is housed, healthy and safe in her own apartment!

View Justice and Lauren’s inspiration story on The People Concern’s YouTube channel.