Christmas Day update for Harold Minnis.
Harold is back in the hospital, but at least now there is an explanation for his situation. Harold is unable to obtain SSI and Medicaid benefits because Marion County is not showing his status as released from custody, according to a social worker I spoke with at the hospital. Persons held in custody cannot obtain outside benefits. The social worker told me on Monday that there is a "blockage in the county", which is also preventing the Marion County Health Department from providing services to Harold. This helps explain why lawyers I contacted cannot help Harold, including Morgan & Morgan of Ocala, and Johnnie Chalkley, a referral from The Florida Bar Lawyer Referral Service. Jayme Cassidy of the Florida Bar Standing Committee on Pro Bono Legal Services said contact Community Legal Services for pro bono legal services. Harold was threatened with eviction for non-payment of rent. Harold's landlady is a kind and understanding person who may have been misled by the Marion County Sheriff's Office. The Sheriff's Office allegedly to her that Harold could be evicted without notice. But the social worker says no, Harold must be served with a 30 day eviction notice. Funny how none of the lawyers could help. So Harold has at least another 30 days in his home, which is a group home with several other men. I promised Harold's landlady I would get a washing machine to replace one that broke. Eventually Harold plans to move to assisted living. A flight of stairs at his current home is a hazard for Harold.
Still no word from the DaVita Ocala-west Florida Regional Kidney Center, and its failure to provide transportation for Harold to get life-saving Kidney dialysis. DaVita has failed to respond to multiple phone calls and emails. So Harold is back in the hospital.
I fund Justice Network from my Social Security retirement income. I would welcome any financial support through PayPal or Zelle. Also, if anyone has a washing machine they don't need, I can pick it up for Harold's landlady. Thank you. Wishing you and your family Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Neil Gillespie.
