Abraham Saved from the Brink of Homelessness

Abraham fled Ethiopia, escaping from a government that imprisoned his fellow students. Granted political asylum in America, and thankful for his newfound freedoms, he forged a career with a refugee relief organization.

“America is a great country,” says Abraham, who lived in New Jersey for one year before moving to Queens.

Later in life, Abraham developed a chronic illness and dementia. With no family to turn to for help, he was on the brink of homelessness. But Project Renewal was there for him.

Abraham has lived stably in Project Renewal’s Geffner House supportive housing development in Midtown Manhattan for six years. Our dedicated staff ensures he takes his medication, goes to appointments with doctors, and stays engaged with the Geffner House community through social activities. They also help him with financial management to ensure his rent is paid and he has spending money each month.

“I almost died, but the staff here at Geffner House helped me get my health back,” Abraham recalls. “Project Renewal takes care of me like family.”

Two-thirds of health care providers report a reluctance among immigrant patients to seek medical care due to fear of deportation and stigma. Unfortunately, due to hateful rhetoric and harmful policy proposals, immigrants are increasingly afraid of accessing services. That’s why it’s crucial that immigrants with mental health needs have access to supportive housing, like Geffner House. To support Geffner House and other Project Renewal programs that help vulnerable immigrants, click HERE.