Success Story: Specialized Recovery Services

Program Support During Time of Crisis Gives Peace of Mind

Submitted by: Christel VanDyke Dzendzel, BSW

CB is a 60-year-old man and suffers from adjustment disorder with anxiety. He also suffers from several medical conditions including Type 2 Diabetes, Stage 3 chronic kidney disease, and is a heart transplant recipient. He is on the Specialized Recovery Services Program at Area Agency on Aging 3.

He lives in a small rural community and takes care of his brother that lives with him. He also gives money to his daughter and her family as well as babysits his grandchildren. CB enjoys helping other people in his community. He receives social security disability and has very limited financial means. He struggles with his mental health and anxiety which is made worse due to his physical struggles and worry over his finances since he has been unable to work.

In March of 2024 he was displaced from his home due to the tornado that went through Logan County, Ohio. He lost his home and all his belongings. He did have insurance to rebuild his modest home, but was skeptical if it would happen.

Construction did begin on his home and CB continued to experience disbelief that his home was being rebuilt. However, there was additional financial strain because he was now paying utilities at two locations, as he was responsible for the cost at his temporary housing.

The Recovery Manager from Area Agency on Aging 3 contacted Logan County Long Term Relief Program and they were able to refer him for financial assistance, as they helped people with disabilities and medical conditions rebuild their lives after the tornado.

The program was not able to pay his extra utility bills but did assist him with replacing his household items that he lost in the tornado. They furnished his home, replacing literally everything from beds, mattresses, couch, chair, linens, cookware, towels, bed sheets and so much more for him and his brother. This assistance provided much needed piece of mind and financial relief to my member.

He had restored hope and decreased anxiety about his future and ability to remain independent in his community as well as his taking care of his brother. He moved into his rebuilt home on April 18, 2025, almost a year after the devastating loss of his home and belongings. He has been busy unpacking his new furnishings, appliances, and everyday items

CB said he is grateful for Specialized Recovery Services Program support, monthly contact, supportive listening, and the action taken to advocate for him and his wellbeing.