She Worried About Losing Power. Now She Has the Power to Live Independently
- Health Projects Center
- Oct 31
- 2 min read
When Lucia first reached out to Health Projects Center (HPC), her world felt like it was closing in around her.
At 70 years old, Lucia was juggling more than anyone should have to manage alone. Three times a week, she traveled for dialysis treatments that left her exhausted. At home, her husband, bedbound and needing constant care, depended on her for everything. And in the middle of it all, the bills kept piling up.
Her PG&E statement sat on the kitchen counter, unpaid. The water company had sent warnings. Even leaving her own home had become dangerous without the right equipment to get in and out safely.
Lucia felt stuck and scared.
Finding a Partner, Not Just a Program
That's when Jessica, a care manager at HPC, entered Lucia's life.
Jessica didn't just see a list of problems to solve. She saw a woman who needed more than services. She needed a partner to help her navigate an overwhelming system.
Together, they tackled each challenge step by step:
A ramp was installed, giving Lucia safe access in and out of her home.
An emergency response button provided peace of mind for both Lucia and her family.
A new wheelchair restored her mobility and independence.
Home-delivered groceries tailored to her dialysis diet kept her nourished and energized.
Utility assistance programs helped her connect with PG&E's REACH Program to reduce her monthly bills.
Water shut-off protection gave her a 60-day buffer when payments fell behind.
But perhaps the most important change wasn't any single service. It was the shift in Lucia's confidence.
From Crisis Mode to Taking Charge
Before working with HPC, Lucia waited for problems to become emergencies. She felt helpless in the face of systems she didn't understand.
Today, she's proactive. When a new challenge arises, Lucia doesn't wait for someone to rescue her. She reaches out to Jessica as a trusted resource and takes the lead in solving her own problems.
"The greatest change I've seen isn't just in Lucia's home," Jessica reflects. "It's in her belief that she can handle what comes next."
Why This Work Matters Now More Than Ever
Lucia's story comes at a critical time. As California's healthcare landscape continues to evolve and costs keep rising, more older adults find themselves in similar situations. Caught between medical needs, financial stress, and the desire to remain independent at home.
Together, HPC and our supporters bridge that gap. We join forces to provide the personalized care management, resource navigation, and emotional support that keep vulnerable Californians safe, healthy, and empowered.
Lucia's transformation was made possible by the generosity of community members who believe everyone deserves to age with dignity. And there are hundreds more like Lucia who need that same support.
Please consider making a direct impact on lives like Lucia's. A contribution of $25 can help fund the installation of a much-needed ramp, providing safety and independence to those who need it most.
Give here today.
These stories represent real clients of Health Projects Center. Names and identifying details have been changed to protect privacy. To learn more about HPC's programs or to support this vital work, visit our website or contact us today.
