Envelope Facebook-f Linkedin
GET IN TOUCH

Finding Stability: Carolyn Ford’s Journey to a New Home

Helpful Information About TBI’s

Additional Case Management information:

News Summary

At 66, Carolyn Ford has found a sense of stability at Touchstone Field Place, a supportive housing community. After years of homelessness, she’s embraced her new life, celebrating her health and community spirit. Touchstone Field Place offers permanent supportive housing, vital services, and a caring community that fosters healing and growth. With an upcoming expansion, it aims to address the ongoing housing crisis and provide more individuals with the support they need.

Finding a Place to Call Home: Carolyn Ford’s Journey

At 66, Carolyn Ford has finally found a sense of stability in her life at Touchstone Field Place. Nestled in the beautiful South Side, this community has become her cherished home for the past two years. Ford speaks fondly about the warmth and contentment she feels every day in her apartment, a stark contrast to her previous two decades filled with uncertainty and homelessness.

A Transformative Move

Before moving into Touchstone Field Place, Ford’s life was a challenging maze of shelters, transitional accommodations, and relying on the goodwill of friends. With a little help from the local YMCA, she secured her very first apartment, marking a major turning point in her life. Touchstone Field Place, developed by the dedicated folks at Community Housing Network (CHN), boasts over 50 units designed specifically for permanent supportive housing.

Impactful Housing Solutions

This innovative housing model is a lifesaver for many. It not only offers a roof over heads but also supplies vital supportive services for individuals facing homelessness, addiction, and mental health challenges. Residents can access things like case management, counseling, and assistance with benefit programs, making it easier for them to rebuild their lives.

What’s even better? Residents are only required to pay a maximum of 30% of their income to live in these federally subsidized apartments. This model has been a game-changer in tackling chronic homelessness, as noted by experts. CHN is doing its part by housing approximately 1,800 people, with around 68% of its funding stemming from federal sources.

A Heartfelt Community

Some might say that Ford’s culinary skills are legendary within her community. She takes great pride in cooking meals for her neighbors, including hosting a fabulous Thanksgiving dinner that is the envy of everyone. That’s not all—she’s even secured a grill for the building, allowing residents to enjoy cookouts in the fresh air.

Touchstone Field Place isn’t just an apartment building; it’s a loving community. Residents look out for each other, and Ford has stepped into a more active role among her neighbors, often dubbed the “hall monitor.” She passionately promotes cleanliness and fosters respect throughout the building, reinforcing a sense of community spirit.

Celebrating Life and Achievements

In a remarkable twist of fate, February 2023 marked two years of Ford being cancer-free after battling kidney cancer from late 2019 to early 2023. This personal triumph, combined with her newfound stability, has brought her an incredible sense of joy as she refers to her apartment as her “mansion” and “sanctuary.”

Expansion and Growth on the Horizon

Touchstone Field Place isn’t stopping here. This spring, it is set to expand with an additional building featuring 44 more units. A further 44 units are anticipated later in the fall, ensuring even more individuals find the supportive housing they desperately need.

Addressing the Housing Crisis

Over the past 17 years, the number of permanent supportive housing beds has dramatically more than doubled across the nation, and Ohio is also witnessing significant growth. Yet, even with these advancements, affordable housing remains a pressing issue. In Franklin County, there are only 26 available housing units for every 100 extremely low-income households, highlighting a rampant crisis that needs urgent attention.

A Light of Hope

Ford’s journey reflects a broader narrative addressing homelessness and affordable housing in central Ohio. With stories like hers, it’s evident that the journey toward sustainable living is profound. Touchstone Field Place stands as a beacon of hope, showcasing the power of community and the difference that supportive services can make in transforming lives.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

Polk County Allocates Emergency Funding for Refugees
Join the Coldest Night of the Year Walk to Combat Homelessness
Why Detroit Leads the Way in Trauma Recovery & Medical Case Management
Why Detroit is a Hub for Trauma Rehabilitation Services in Michigan
Flint Healthcare Challenges: How Case Management Fills the Gaps

Additional Resources