The Jewish Board’s Bronx Community Mental Health Center is a Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) funded program specifically designed to serve Bronx residents who were disproportionately impacted by COVID-19. Through this program, we help clients regain access to services and make connections to address additional needs through innovative and targeted outreach. This is how we were able to help Sergio* tap into our network of supports and services and help him navigate during a turbulent time of isolation and uncertainty.
Difficulties Opening Up in a Post-COVID World
Struggling with unemployment, financial stress, and low self-esteem, Sergio, a 39-year-old from the Bronx, was finding it difficult to talk and connect with others. This lack of connection made it hard for him to find employment, leading to severe financial stress. Faced with food insecurity, at risk for eviction, and needing professional medical care, he reached out to us for help. That’s when Marco, a Case Manager from our Bridges to Care program, stepped in.
During their in-person meetings, Marco met Segio on his level with care and compassion. He employed motivational interviewing, a technique designed to help individuals move closer to wanting change for themselves. Slowly, their conversations helped Marco gain a deeper understanding of Sergio’s needs. With a deeper understanding of his situation, Marco and Sergio developed a plan to meet Sergio’s needs. This plan included the need for professional medical care because Sergio had not seen a primary care doctor for over 20 years.
Gaining a Supportive Network and a New Chance at Life
Through Marco’s support, Sergio began building a network of care that could help him get back on track. As they navigated the Food Stamps and Medicaid application process, Sergio began to experience a shift in perspective because of how actively he participated in the process and advocated for his own needs. This active role in his recovery journey indicated Sergio’s dedication to developing his own agency and resilience.
Marco assisted Sergio in obtaining interview-appropriate clothing, providing another boost to his confidence. He also connected Sergio to Personalized Recovery Oriented Services (PROS), our mental health program that incorporates group support. Marco also encouraged Sergio to finally see a doctor for his general wellness and to ensure he wouldn’t go another 20 years without a doctor’s visit.
Through continuous support and a nonjudgmental approach, Sergio made incremental improvements over time that led to significant changes, proving that recovery involves addressing the practical and emotional aspects of an individual’s life. Today, Sergio feels hopeful, continues to work with his Care Coordinator, Marco, and is in the process of getting access to his own cellphone and Medicaid managed care. Sergio’s next goal is to obtain his own apartment and restart his career.
*Names have been changed to protect the privacy of our clients.
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