Omar: Recapturing Independence/Peace
Omar's life in Somalia was secure and quiet – until war broke out. That’s when Omar and his family fled to Yemen; their lives forever changed.
Omar’s eldest son eventually came to the U.S., became a citizen and sponsored his father for a U.S. Permanent Residency Card (“Green Card”). As Omar’s sponsor, his son agreed to support his father completely. Omar was sad about leaving the rest of his family, but looked forward to a better life and regaining peace of mind. However, after only a year, Omar’s son experienced financial problems, which led to personal bankruptcy. Then, his son’s marriage fell apart. Soon, Omar’s son was no longer able to care for himself or his father – and Omar became homeless at age 82.
Not knowing where to turn, Omar stayed temporarily with a member of the Twin Cities Somali community who helped him arrange for an apartment in a Minneapolis Public Housing Authority (MPHA) high rise. Omar was hopeful that he could build a better life for himself despite the circumstances.
Then one day, Omar collapsed. He required emergency cardiac bypass surgery to correct several blockages in his heart. Though his surgery was a success, a frustrated Omar lost his sense of optimism and became consumed by depression. Stress and uncertainty had gotten the best of him.
Just when Omar thought he would not be able to continue to live on his own, Volunteers of America’s Highrise Social Services program stepped in to help. The program staff works in forty MPHA apartment buildings to help elderly and disabled residents, manage a variety of matters including economic assistance eligibility, physical and mental health, financial concerns, housing needs, personal crises, and more. The program staff works with Hennepin County and community agencies to identify services that will assist residents in continuing to live independently.
Volunteers of America’s social worker, Mahdi Nur, who is from Somalia himself, learned about Omar and visited with him to assess his needs. First, Omar needed to set up his apartment and obtain financial help. So, Mahdi assisted Omar with the paperwork required to apply for emergency medical assistance, general assistance and U.S. citizenship. Mahdi also contacted community agencies to obtain furniture, household items, and rent assistance for Omar. Additionally, Mahdi arranged for Omar to attend our on-site Halal senior dining program and receive groceries from a local food shelf. Then to assist Omar in his own home for several hours each day, Mahdi arranged for a PCA (Personal Care Attendant), as well as for a Somali group to provide Omar with clothing and cleaning services during his recuperation. With Volunteers of America’s assistance and Mahdi’s kindness, Omar’s mood began to improve.
Today, Omar has regained his energy and strength. He is standing up straighter and takes a brisk walk outdoors each day. Omar visits the high rise community room frequently to socialize with other Somali elders and discuss problems. He attends senior dining three days a week and sees his cardiologist regularly. Mahdi continues to check-in with Omar to monitor his health, well being and the status of his citizenship. Although Omar remains frustrated with the cold Minnesota winters and adapting to the culture, he smiles because he has retained his independence and dignity. Gradually, Omar is regaining peace of mind.