I've gained emotional stability. This stress and anguish that I was suffering, because I didn't know what was going to happen to my situation or future, changed completely.

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For German, the LA ADU Accelerator Program felt like an “answer to [his] prayers.” Prior to finding a home through the program, German was experiencing a living situation he describes as “chaotic” and “critical,” so much so that his health suffered. "For two and a half months, I was living in my car, uncomfortable, and very cold. Cold enough that it affected my lungs, I had to call 911. The greatest question was what would happen to me if I continued living in my car."

German was motivated and determined to find affordable housing, but he faced many challenges that took a toll on both his body and his mind. "You can imagine the condition I was in: desperate, distressed, without having a light at the end of the tunnel through which I could leave." 

However, a referral from his caseworker at Meals on Wheels led him to speak with Veronica, ONEGeneration’s Housing Navigator. That phone call transformed his life trajectory almost instantly. After pre-screening German, Veronica thought he might be a good match for Erica, a homeowner participating in the LA ADU Accelerator Program. Soon after interviewing with Erica and finding that they were very compatible, German moved into her ADU. "[Erica] is another angel that I found a bit later on in my journey, before being able to exit this tunnel that appeared not to have an end." Erica and German have connected deeply over their shared faith. “Like the word of god says, 'There is unity and peace,’” he says. 

For German, the LA ADU Accelerator Program and the assurance of stable, long-term housing has improved his mental well-being. "I've gained emotional stability. This stress and anguish that I was suffering, because I didn't know what was going to happen to my situation or future, changed completely."

German says the support he’s received from ONEGeneration has allowed him to transition successfully into his new neighborhood. Veronica has helped him sign up for food benefits, get directions to the pharmacy, and feel an overall sense of security and comfort. German urges others who find themselves in similar situations not to lose hope.

"For all the people who are living in the same situation I found myself in, I want to tell you that this is a great solution. Don’t be just a listener, come and see for yourself the great benefits that this program has to offer and what a blessing it will be to be part of the program. You will be surprised by all the things that ONEGeneration will do for you, and all the things that you will feel, like a gratitude for the labor they are putting in to help people who need it."