Bridge Shelter Success: Marty’s Story

Marty, a senior-aged veteran, recently came to the Costa Mesa Bridge Shelter following a tumultuous break up with his girlfriend of 10 years. With nowhere else to go and no family in the area, he felt the shelter was his only option for housing.

After moving into the shelter, outreach staff helped Marty contact his family currently residing in a different state. His family urged him to consider moving so he could be nearby and start a new life.

A lack of housing options was not the only thing negatively impacting Marty’s life. He was also embroiled in a bitter struggle over possession of his personal belongings. Outreach staff helped Marty establish a court case so he can retrieve his belongings peacefully and without incident prior to moving out of state.

As an added bonus, Marty was also connected to the Veterans Administration and informed he may be eligible for rental assistance.

Once his court issues are resolved, he will be able to reunite with his family and start his new life. In the meantime, he has a comfortable and stable place to reside while he gets his affairs in order.

To learn more about the Costa Mesa Bridge Shelter and the city’s efforts to assist those in need, please visit www.costamesaca.gov/homelessness.