For someone battling a life-threatening illness, the specter of poverty and homelessness can be overwhelming. CASA understands the sense of security and peace of mind that comes from having a place to call home. We are reminded of it every day by tenants like Rosemary.

Rosemary first came to CASA in 1998 when her chronic lung disease made it hard for her to keep a steady job. This, in turn, made it difficult for her to find an affordable apartment. After a long wait, Rosemary obtained a housing voucher, and, working with a Wake County social worker, applied for an apartment with CASA. She eventually moved into her own one-bedroom apartment in downtown Raleigh, just steps from CASA’s office in a quiet, peaceful neighborhood. Like the majority of CASA tenants, Rosemary paid just 30% of her income for rent each month.

With the constant worry about her housing circumstances finally resolved, the 48-year-old mother of two thrived. Rosemary’s health improved, her ability to work returned, and her meager savings increased. An energetic and loving person, Rosemary was a great neighbor and friend who loved raising house plants and was active in her church. She even volunteered as a CASA board member, sharing her personal experience and insights with CASA’s decision-makers.

After 4 years, Rosemary’s life was back on track, and she felt strong enough, financially and physically, to return her housing voucher to Wake County so that someone else in need could use it. Before she moved into her new apartment, CASA staff made sure to let Rosemary know that if she ever needed our help again, we would be there for her.

Five years later, CASA found out that Rosemary’s health had deteriorated again. She had been living in her own place and had a full-time administrative job, but her disabling lung condition was taking its toll on her body, making it hard for her to continue working and to pay her rent. CASA had just completed a new apartment community for individuals with disabilities, and Rosemary was grateful and excited to become a part of it.

Rosemary lived in her new apartment for two years. Her joyful spirit made her a favorite in the neighborhood, and her balcony, overflowing with beautiful plants, seemed to reflect her hopeful, happy attitude. Rosemary’s next-door neighbor shared the same first name, and the two women developed a very close friendship.

A few months ago, Rosemary’s health condition became grave and she was hospitalized. Within a week, she passed away. Two CASA staff members were able to visit her in the hospital during that last week, and even then she expressed her gratitude to CASA for keeping her apartment safe and secure while she was sick.

For those of us who have not faced homelessness, the importance of a safe, comfortable home is sometimes taken for granted. Tenants like Rosemary remind us how crucial this basic human need really is. All of us at CASA share Rosemary’s gratitude with you, our friends and supporters. Through your help, Rosemary was able to live with dignity and grace, and to inspire those around her with her courage and spirit.