Support CDEL This Giving Tuesday!
Meet Mei
“After Ben turned 18, I was caught by total surprise when the government agencies, and even my son’s school started asking for proof that I am the ‘guardian,’ I had no clue why they would ask such a question, of course I’m his guardian, I’m his mother! Over the next few months, I quickly learned that I could no longer advocate for my very own son. His benefits stopped coming in, and I did not know where to go. I felt like my world was crumbling down. Thankfully, the social workers at Pui Tak Center referred us to CDEL, where they have a Chinese speaking volunteer attorney. CDEL was there every step of the way to assist us throughout the adult guardianship process. I knew, at that time, my son and I would be ok. Thank you, CDEL!” - CDEL Client Mei
Mei is a wife, mother and immigrant who speaks English as a second language and lives in the Bridgeport neighborhood of Chicago. She cares deeply about her family and has been a strong advocate for Ben, her son with disabilities, ever since he was born. Mei worked hard to ensure Ben could continue to get the care and support he needs.
When her son turned eighteen, Mei was shocked that she could no longer advocate for Ben. Her family was at a loss and did not know where to turn. Mei was relieved when social workers at the Pui Tak Center, a CDEL community partner and church-based community center in Chinatown told her about CDEL.
CDEL volunteer attorney Valerie Chu speaks multiple languages including Chinese and was able to translate and support Mei and her family as they successfully navigated the often confusing and time-consuming process of obtaining adult guardianship for her son. Now Mei and her family can live at ease knowing Ben is getting the care he needs.
Your donation to CDEL this Giving Tuesday, will go towards helping CDEL’s clients like Mei get the pro bono legal assistance they need. Thank you for your support of CDEL and its programs.
If you have any questions or issues with this donation form, please email Alyssa York, CDEL’s Development Associate, at ayork@cdelaw.org.