From Homelessness to Hope
Wilfredo “Willie” Lopez knows the streets of lower Manhattan well. Born and raised there, he later found himself without a place to call home, navigating the harsh realities of life on the streets. But with support from The Father’s Heart ministry, Willie took his first steps toward stability and finally moved into a place of his own.
Everything changed when he lost his job. Suddenly, the security he’d worked so hard to build was slipping away. Desperate for help, Willie turned to The Father’s Heart, where he learned about Open Hands Legal Services and their mobile Legal Aid Desk.
“I requested some help from The Father’s Heart ministry, because they have legal services here. Candace was one of the persons that actually helped me.”
Finding a Way Forward
Willie met Candace, a volunteer attorney from Open Hands, and from their first meeting, he felt a glimmer of hope. The unemployment insurance process can be complicated and daunting, but Candace gave Willie the support and tools he needed to face it head-on.
“She gave me a lot of advice. She gave me the steps and the confidence. It made me win my case.”
With Candace’s guidance, Willie filed an appeal to challenge the decision that denied him unemployment benefits. As he explained his side of the situation, he felt a newfound sense of empowerment. He wasn’t alone in this battle—Open Hands stood with him every step of the way.
A Second Chance
The results of Willie’s appeal were life-changing. He received a favorable outcome, which meant he could continue to support himself as he worked to rebuild his life. The victory wasn’t just about financial stability; it was about regaining his confidence and reclaiming his sense of self-worth.
“It changed my life. It changed my life entirely. And I thank the Lord for that.”
For Willie, the support from Open Hands was more than just legal advice—it was the chance to see a brighter future. The compassion and dedication of the volunteer attorneys reminded him that he mattered and that he could succeed, even when the odds were stacked against him.
A Community That Cares
Willie’s story is a powerful example of how legal aid can transform lives, offering a way out when all hope seems lost. At Open Hands, we believe that no one should have to navigate these challenges alone. With the help of our volunteer attorneys and supporters like you, we’re able to be there for people like Willie when they need it most.
Thank you for being part of a community that believes in second chances, and for making stories like Willie’s possible.