Content categorized as Disability

From prosperity to poverty: how my life changed

Jeff Taylor reflects on how he became homeless.

I can make a difference in 2022

Abel Putu writes about his goals for the upcoming year.

Legal Counsel for the Elderly to expand resources for veterans

Since 2014, the D.C. nonprofit Legal Counsel for the Elderly (LCE) has run what is known as the “veterans advocacy project,” which helps seniors who… Read more »

255 households are on the waiting list for ADA-compliant housing in DCHA-managed properties

With a backlog of over 70,000 households, the demand for public housing is steadily growing in the city amid a precipitous rise in housing costs. Meanwhile, seniors and people with disabilities already in D.C. public housing struggle especially, with a 255-household waiting list for ADA-compliant units.

DC office for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing communities likely to secure funding for first time ever

If the funding sticks, the office could help promote civil rights for thousands of deaf residents.

Peace Be Still

A poem by artist and vendor Darlesha Joyner.

After 14 years of not being heard, this formerly homeless veteran is a board-certified counselor trained to help others

Xavier Justice shares his road to recovery from addiction with the help of Veterans on the Rise’s flexible program.

My Life So Far

A short story of the struggles that artist/vendor Patty Feris has experienced over the course of her life.

Protecting D.C.’s disabled citizens

Jennifer McLaughlin celebrates the District’s recent legislation on disabilities, and encourages the city to continue its support.

VENDOR PROFILE: SHAKAYE HENRY

Shakaye Henry moved to Washington, D.C. more than three years ago. Although she became homeless not too soon after her move, she has always enjoyed the District.

From the Air Force to the Streets

Robin Denegal aspires to publish her autobiography one day. And after a try at the military and ten years on the streets, she has more than enough experiences to fill the pages.

Hearing Highlights Problems in D.C. Jails

There’s a severe lack of health care and support services in the D.C. jails, prompting many mentally ill and homeless people to end up behind bars over and over again, advocates told District councilmembers at a rent hearing on health conditions at the city’s jails.

D.C. Bus Station Hub Provides Aid to Mentally Ill Travelers

Imagine stepping off a bus in a city you have never visited. You have no money. You have no place to stay. You need a mental health care provider but have none. You wander the streets for weeks with no home or food. The city has become your nightmare. 

The History of Homelessness in Washington, DC: Part I, 1975-1985

This year marks the 30th anniversary of home rule in the District of Columbia. Since 1975, D.C. has had its own mayor and city council and, of course, its own share of successes and problems.