Image credit: Los Angeles Times

A few months ago, the Los Angeles Times covered the story of a 97-year-old woman, Bessie Mae Berger, living out of an SUV with her two sons after losing their home in Palm Springs.  Although Bessie qualified for housing, somehow her sons (at 60 and 62!) were “too young” to qualify as well (there’s California logic for you), and she refused to be separated from them.

As I have well learned from experience, there’s nothing like a bit of publicity to get the help you need.  Upon the release of the Times’ article, public outrage, donations, and support spurred the state to ramp up their efforts to assist the family.  A nonprofit organization, the Integrated Recovery Network, finally managed to locate temporary housing for all three people.

Bessie Mae passed away yesterday of a stroke and a heart attack.  However, she went on her terms – she lived her final months in a home, not a car, with her two beloved sons by her side.  And she brought increased attention to the growing epidemic of elderly homeless individuals in the U.S.

Rest in peace, Bessie Mae Berger.  Your struggle was not in vain.