Changing Lives
James
PATH (Projects for Assistance in Transition from Homelessness) program utilizes specially trained staff and volunteers to connect those experiencing serious mental illness and homelessness with psychiatric treatment and housing. We search for these vulnerable people where and when they need us—on the streets, under bridges, in the deserts and forests, even in snowstorms. This is the story of one of our clients who was served through PATH, funded in part by the Forest Highlands Foundation. James Westwind was housed with a sober group home in Flagstaff, but due to loss of employment, he was unable to pay bills which unfortunately resulted in eviction. James was homeless for about a month before enrolling with Catholic Charities Community Services. Our PATH staff, Brynn Merz enrolled him into the PATH program and helped him stay at Flagstaff Shelter Services. While he was staying there, Brynn and James consistently worked together seeking resources for mental health treatment and other community resources. He enrolled into treatment services at Southwest Behavioral Health and received benefits for food stamps, and health insurance. James also enrolled with Section 8 Housing and applied for a voucher at Flagstaff Housing Authority. After a year of living at the shelter, and continuing to work alongside Brynn, James found out on 01/08/2025 that he was going to receive a voucher for Section 8 Housing! This is a wonderful permanent housing solution for him, for the long term. It is challenging to find a unit that will accept a Section 8 Housing voucher for Flagstaff. There is limited affordable housing and landlords often will not accept a voucher. However, Legacy Pines offered an apartment for James that accommodated his needs. James recently moved into his new home on 02/12/2025 and is enjoying the safety and comfort of living independently.
Brynn Merz is a Homeless Outreach Support Specialist for Catholic Charities Community Services PATH Program- Coconino County
Photo credit: Catholic Charities
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