Jennifer Norton and her two sons, Dominic and William, who are both on the autism spectrum, found themselves living in a homeless shelter in Leominster since September 2023. This sudden change occurred when their previous home was condemned, forcing them to evacuate. Despite having a Section 8 housing voucher, Jennifer struggled to find a rental space that would accept it.
The Norton family's difficulty in securing housing was compounded by the fact that many rental spaces were either unavailable or unwilling to accept the Section 8 voucher. As the months went by, the family's situation grew more desperate, with no suitable housing options in sight.
Natalie Higgins, the State Representative from Leominster, reached out to The Arc to ask for assistance in finding housing for the Norton family. The Arc, known for its unwavering support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families, sprang into action through Maribel Roman, the Family Support Specialist.
Maribel Roman took immediate steps, visiting the family multiple times to understand their specific housing needs. She accompanied the family to various housing agencies, including the Fitchburg Housing Authority, LUK, MOC, and Meadow Brook, but they faced repeated rejections as their situation was not deemed an emergency. Undeterred, Maribel used social media to post a request for a two- to three-bedroom apartment available in the area.
The social media post led to five viewings and two landlords eager to rent a three-bedroom apartment to the Norton family. Ms. Norton selected an apartment with an in-unit laundry room, and the family is scheduled to move in on Friday, August 2. This move marks the end of their time in the homeless shelter and the beginning of a new chapter in a stable home.
Additionally, noticing that Dominic and William needed haircuts, Maribel contacted a friend who is a barber. The barber kindly agreed to cut the boys' hair for free, giving them a fresh start as they move into their new home.
This story highlights the power of community and the importance of advocacy and support. The combined efforts of local representatives, The Arc, and community members brought the Norton family out of homelessness and into a safe, stable environment. It underscores how critical support systems and human kindness are in transforming lives, providing hope, and ensuring that individuals and families facing hardship can find a way forward.
Maribel Roman’s dedication and the impact of The Arc’s Bridge to the Future Program played a pivotal role in securing housing for the Norton family. This program is designed to provide comprehensive support and resources to individuals and families facing challenging situations, ensuring they have the tools needed for a brighter future.
The Arc's commitment to enhancing the quality of life for individuals with disabilities and their families is evident in every step of this journey. With a history spanning 72 years, The Arc has consistently advocated for human rights and provided actionable solutions, making a significant impact in fostering inclusive and supportive communities.