In Marshall County, Indiana, the challenges of homelessness and housing insecurity are starkly illustrated through the experiences of individuals like Kevin, who faced significant obstacles in securing stable housing. Barbara Holcomb, the president of Link to Hope, a United Way Agency dedicated to assisting those in need, highlighted the multifaceted nature of these issues, which include poverty, mental health struggles, and lack of affordable housing.
In 2024, residents of The Pointe were ordered to vacate their homes, leading to a crisis for many individuals, including Kevin. His story reflects the complexities of homelessness, which often stems from a combination of personal challenges and systemic barriers. Holcomb emphasizes the importance of building relationships to help individuals transition to stability.
Understanding the Landscape of Homelessness
Holcomb points out that while there is no legal requirement for governments to provide food, clothing, and shelter, organizations like Link to Hope strive to bridge these gaps. In 2025, The Pointe was ordered to be demolished by the City of Plymouth, forcing residents to seek immediate assistance.
When 19 residents were displaced, Link to Hope collaborated with local authorities to fund temporary accommodations at the Days Inn. Residents were assessed based on their individual needs, categorized into red, yellow, and green groups, allowing the team to prioritize resources effectively. This triage process resembles case management, as each person was encouraged to take actionable steps toward stability.
Among those affected, Kevin’s situation was particularly dire. After losing his mother at a young age and navigating a difficult childhood in foster care, he faced numerous barriers, including serious health issues and a lack of support. At the time of his eviction from The Pointe, Kevin worked at a local gas station, but his income was insufficient to cover basic living expenses.
Challenges in Navigating Support Systems
Initially placed in a room at the Days Inn, Kevin later shared a mobile home with two others. Unfortunately, his roommates’ legal troubles led to another eviction. After finding himself homeless, Kevin endured living on the streets, which compounded his health issues.
Holcomb’s involvement began when she received a call from the Case Manager Nurse at St. Joseph Health System, informing her that Kevin was in the Emergency Room. Upon her arrival, Holcomb discovered he had been living outside and had significant medical needs, including reliance on a wheelchair.
Despite efforts to secure a room for Kevin at the Economy Inn, he was denied due to a lack of ADA-accessible accommodations. As the situation unfolded, Holcomb coordinated with various facilities to find Kevin a safe place while addressing his immediate health concerns.
Holcomb’s commitment to Kevin was evident when she took him for meals and ensured he received necessary medical attention, including follow-ups for his orthopedic and mental health needs. A profound moment came when Kevin attempted self-harm due to overwhelming pain and feelings of isolation. Holcomb’s quick action in calling emergency services highlighted the urgent nature of his situation.
Kevin’s journey included hospitalization and a stay at the Medical Behavioral Hospital of Mishawaka, where he received intensive care. Throughout this period, Holcomb worked tirelessly to navigate the bureaucratic challenges of obtaining identification and financial assistance, which are often critical for accessing services.
Despite the setbacks, including the loss of his identification and difficulty securing housing due to past behavioral issues, Holcomb remained a steadfast advocate for Kevin. She even facilitated his appointments and covered medical co-pays until he was eligible for Medicare and Medicaid.
A Path to Stability and New Beginnings
Eventually, with Holcomb’s support, Kevin was approved for a Garden Court, but was later denied due to previous circumstances. Despite this, Holcomb persevered and found him a vacant mobile home unit, advocating for his case with the property manager who remembered Kevin fondly.
After moving into his new home, Kevin expressed profound gratitude towards Holcomb, referring to her as a maternal figure in his life. Their relationship underscores the importance of connection and support for those facing homelessness.
Holcomb continues to emphasize the need for systemic change and community support, noting that many individuals lack the resources to navigate the complexities of homelessness alone. Her experiences with Kevin serve as a powerful reminder of the human impact of housing insecurity.
Link to Hope remains committed to addressing the needs of those in Marshall County, and Holcomb urges the community to support their efforts. Donations can be made through their website or via mail to Link to Hope, P.O. Box 221, Plymouth, IN 46563.
As Holcomb reflected on Kevin’s journey, she remarked, “All the work we’ve been doing here in Marshall County is important work. We just need to keep moving.” Her dedication to helping individuals like Kevin illustrates the critical role that empathy and advocacy play in combating homelessness.
