Homeless Lady, Paula's Housing Expenses

This is Paula and her beloved cat Imma. Paula is 71 years old and fell on hard times when she lost her home of 21 years in foreclosure earlier this year. She is living on a very limited social security income and cannot afford standard housing. After the foreclosure she spent most of her remaining savings staying at a motel until she ran out of money and then took up residency in her truck in the parking lot of Meijer.

For approximately a month and a half, Paula stayed at Meijer because it was the only option that kept her and Imma together. Many citizens took notice of Paula, approached her to learn about her story and discovered for themselves what a sweet lady she is. After learning of her situation, many people brought her food and money to help her through. Several Miami Township officers were made aware of her and would stop to check on her throughout the day & night.

Miami Twp. Ofc. Morgan assisted her with completing applications for subsidized housing, however there is a 3+ month wait list (some as high as 5 years!). Other options such as shelters would not permit Imma to stay with Paula, so Paula declined because she cannot bear the thought of parting with Imma (and Imma is just as attached to Paula). Section 8 housing / vouchers are not an option because they are not accepting applications currently, and when they do there is approximately a 6 -18 month wait period for assistance.

Ofc. Morgan was able to find a room for rent as temporary housing that is being funded for a couple weeks by private donations, however we need to raise more money to keep her there until more permanent, income-based housing becomes available. To increase her chances at housing that will keep Paula and Imma together, we also need to have Imma vaccinated and neutered (yes, Imma is a boy – cute story that I’m sure she shared with some of her visitors ).

All funds that are raised through this GoFundMe will be administered by the Miami Township Police Association via our Treasurer, Jennifer Ryan, as needed for Paula and Imma’s necessities.