Author: Dayana Huerta
In 2010, Diana* came to Taller de José seeking help. Due to various health issues, she had been unable to work for years, and she had no family nearby to assist her in navigating the complicated healthcare and public benefits system. She needed help writing a letter to serve as proof of address for her public benefits application. The letter was the start of what would become a lengthy paperwork process we would help her navigate.
After that situation was resolved, Diana reached out again. This time she needed to attend a doctor’s appointment, but was nervous about navigating public transportation alone, especially since she does not speak English. One of our Compañeras (or caseworkers) met her at our then main office in Little Village and accompanied her on the bus to the clinic, ensuring she felt safe, supported, and understood every step of the way.
Over the years, Diana has grown in confidence and independence. Today, she no longer needs assistance in getting to her appointments, but she still requests a Compañera to meet her in the waiting room of the clinic. Diana’s growth in confidence is an example of what can happen when people are met with dignity and consistent support.
To Diana, the Compañeras at Taller de José are more than just case workers. They are her second family. She speaks with deep gratitude about the care, compassion, and ongoing companionship she has received over the years.
“Yo las quiero mucho a todas,” she shares. “I have a deep care for all of the Compañeras. They have always been there when I needed them.”
Stories like Diana’s remind us that accompaniment is not just about walking alongside someone, it’s also about helping them become more resilient and believing in their ability to move forward.
Diana has been a part of the Taller de José family for over 15 years now, and her story is a testament to the impact that accompaniment and compassion can have on a community. She still has that first letter we helped her write! It serves as a tangible memory of her first experience of receiving support from Taller de José and all the times that followed.
*Client’s name has been changed for privacy