Client Focus: Marcus

In the challenging landscape of managing HIV and other critical healthcare needs, the story of individuals like *Marcus vividly illustrates how the burden of unresolved utility bills, exacerbated by uncooperative landlords, can create an overwhelming hurdle for those striving to prioritize their medical care and overall well-being.

When Marcus, a patient of Christian Community Health Center (CCHC), was initially referred by CCHC’s housing case manager for legal assistance he had been struggling to afford his utility bills. They had started piling up, despite having a written agreement with his landlord that they would cover his utility costs. Marcus’ landlord was unresponsive to requests to comply with the terms of the lease. Since the utility bills were in his name, and so he was forced to use his already limited income towards his utilities to keep the balance low and maintain his credit score.

After gathering the facts of the case, Legal Council attorney Nooreen Reza assisted the client in drafting a demand letter to his landlord to remind them of their obligation to pay the utility costs as reflected in the lease agreement. Nooreen also provided Marcus with information about his rights in this situation, adding to his self-advocacy skills.  After sending the demand letter to Marcus’ landlord and the property management company, his outstanding balances were entirely paid off by his landlord.

With the burden of outstanding utility payments off his plate, Marcus is now better able to focus his energy and resources on his HIV-related support and treatment, ultimately enhancing his quality of life and well-being.