Best Friend Lends Hand
Janice and Nancy have been best friends since they went to grade school together here in the Bay Area 50 years ago. In that time they have seen many changes in one another’s lives, including marriage, divorce, children, grandchildren, illness, personal triumphs and devastating challenges.

One challenge Janice has seen Nancy face is numerous health problems. Nancy has diabetes, asthma, knee injuries, and excruciating back pain. Nancy has worked her whole life as a full-time hair stylist, but she can no longer work because it is too painful to stand. The chemicals in the hair salon were also affecting her asthma. Like 42% of low-income residents in San Mateo County, Nancy did not receive health insurance from her employer.

Janice saw Nancy’s health and spirit falter and she wanted to help. “I read about Samaritan House in the newspaper,” says Janice, “and I knew that you helped people in these situations.”

Janice made an appointment for Nancy and even gave her a ride to the office. She offered support to her friend as she did something that was tremendously difficult for her…ask for help.

“She’s extremely independent,” says Janice. “She has kids she could move in with but it would be a real burden for them. They have families of their own. She does not want to put them through that as a mother. She wants to find a way to help herself.”

Nancy still cannot believe she is in this situation, “I pay my bills on time. I work hard. I don’t owe money to anyone. I don’t know how I deserve this.”

When the two friends came to Samaritan House, they talked to a Case Worker who assisted Nancy with emergency rental assistance and food. The Case Worker also helped her with the necessary paperwork to receive disability assistance. Her case is currently being reviewed for approval. “I don’t know what she’ll do if she does not get disability,” explains Janice.
Nancy has also been working with Samaritan House to explore employment options. “It’s scary to try to look for work in a different field after doing one thing for 30 years. I try not to think about it too much because when I think about it, my medical conditions get worse. When you can’t take care of yourself, you worry, though.” Nancy is a warm, friendly person and she is looking for employment in customer service. She would like a job where she can sit while she works. Janice encourages her to keep positive and hopefully a job will come her way.

Nancy is thankful to have a friend like Janice to provide her with such wonderful support. “She is my backbone,” she says as she squeezes her friend’s hand emotionally. “I’m really lucky to have a friend like her and that she found Samaritan House. I really appreciate all of the things Samaritan House has done for me.”