From under the bridge to turning the keys: the Eddie Jones story

By Tony Smith, Case Manager, HOPE Atlanta

Mr. Eddie Jones has had a life filled with love, uncertainty and tragedy. His mother taught him to be a good neighbor, believe in God and look out for family. Eddie was born in Miami, Florida but moved to Atlanta with his mother in 1982 to live in Cobb County. Over the years Eddie, excelled as a truck driver and in food service jobs. However, the death of his mother caused an enormous toll on his mental health. He was diagnosed with PTSD and depression and is also living with body aches due to rods placed in his hips and legs.

As I got to know Eddie, I was struck by how much he could accomplish, even with his physical impairments. He walks everywhere to get his medication and his mail. He put me to work immediately applying for a birth certificate, IDs and a social security card. Eddie took his medication and was always willing to work with me to ensure we got things done. After some research and a list of referrals, I was able to identify the Peachstone Independent Living Facility as a potential housing placement. It was my luck that the place was right down the street from the home of Eddie’s late mother and close to his family.

We went together to view the property. Initially hesitant about the transition, Eddie thought about the benefits of housing in a shared living environment that still has independence and decided it was a great fit. With the help of the HOPE Housing Program, we were able to get Eddie a deposit and six months of rental assistance. It fit like a glove and was soothing to Eddie’s soul. That is reflected in the picture of Eddie receiving his keys. His smile makes you feel endless possibility.

The possibility to transition a client from living under a bridge to receiving keys is what we do at HOPE Atlanta. The collaboration of service is the only way this was possible. Together working for a common cause to turn loss and tragedy into hope. This is the Eddie Jones story!

About HOPE Atlanta

HOPE Atlanta works with individuals and families who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness with housing, outreach, prevention and emergency services. Since 1900, it has been providing a comprehensive approach to address homelessness and provide solutions that promote lifelong stability. Last year, HOPE Atlanta served nearly 8,000 individuals in 28 metro Atlanta counties.

HOPE Atlanta’s staff has been serving those who are experiencing or at-risk of homelessness during the COVID-19 crisis and continues to help individuals and families with long-term housing stability. In partnership with the City of Atlanta and DeKalb County, it opened “healthy hotels” for individuals experiencing homelessness who are 65 or older, medically fragile or needing to recover and/or isolate from COVID-19. HOPE Atlanta case managers are currently working on permanent housing plans for all the hotel residents – approximately 250 individuals.