CountyCare Member Story

CountyCare Helps A New Mom

Natalie* is a 30-year-old CountyCare member who gave birth to a premature baby boy when she was 32 weeks pregnant. Her baby spent time in the NICU due to a few complications including trouble with feeding. Due to the baby’s extended stay in the NICU, Natalie was not able to work and was at risk of losing her apartment. Natalie shared her situation and concerns that she was at risk of eviction with her CountyCare Care Coordinator. Natalie was worried that she would not have a place to bring her baby home.

Her Care Coordinator sprang into action and referred Natalie to Legal Aid Chicago and signed her up to receive Foodsmart benefits that include nutritional support and money for groceries. Her Care Coordinator worked with Natalie to make sure that once the baby was able to leave the hospital, they would be able to follow up with all the appointments for her and her baby.

With the help of Legal Aid Chicago and other eviction resources, Natalie and her landlord came to an agreement for her to stay in the apartment while she looked for a new place to live. Thanks to the support Natalie received from her Care Coordinator on her housing issues, she is happy to report that she secured a part-time job and is on track with the rent at her new apartment.

*Names and identifying details have been changed to protect anonymity.