Thirty-five year old Jerry Buttner came to JDC’s Homeless Advocacy Project (HAP) for help getting federal disability benefits (SSI). He had a long history of mental health and medical problems, and was living in a half-way house after serving time in prison.

Among other significant issues, he doesn’t speak at all. His psychologist referred him to HAP, where he worked with Bruce Bortin, an experienced SSI advocate.

Thanks to Bortin’s work, Buttner now receives SSI benefits. Bortin also went to Wells Fargo with Buttner to help him open a bank account.

Learn more: Find out how HAP makes a difference in the community, visit www.sfbar.org/hap.