Housing Navigation in Action: A Housing Success Story: Glen Cullen

On December 5, 2025, the Housing Navigator with Prospera Housing and Community Services began working with Wellpoint member Glen Cullen, who was facing imminent housing instability. At the time of referral, Glen was living in a duplex in Abilene, Texas, where he served as the on-site maintenance worker but did not have a formal lease agreement. The property owners unexpectedly informed him that he would need to vacate the unit by December 31, 2025, without providing a reason.

This instability was not new for Glen or his wife. For more than five years, Glen had lived without a formal lease and experienced repeated episodes of homelessness, including staying with friends, renting rooms, living in motels, and at times sleeping in his car. These circumstances made it difficult for the couple to achieve stability or access consistent support services.

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the Housing Navigator conducted a comprehensive assessment and identified that Glen lacked a support system to assist with navigating housing options. Throughout the process, the Housing Navigator provided consistent emotional support and guidance, especially during periods when Glen felt discouraged and uncertain about his future.

The Housing Navigator explained that greater affordable housing opportunities were available in San Antonio compared to Abilene. Glen expressed interest in relocating to San Antonio to pursue a fresh start with his wife. With this goal in mind, the Housing Navigator quickly identified a HUD unit at Vista Verde Apartments, a Prospera property. The Housing Navigator coordinated an in-person meeting with Glen and his wife to assist with the application and required documentation. At the same time, the Housing Navigator supported the household’s broader stability by referring Glen’s wife to Prospera’s Employment Readiness Program to pursue job opportunities.

Glen was approved for the apartment, which is scheduled to be move-in ready by January 23, 2026. The unit’s affordable rent of $207 per month is sustainable on Glen’s fixed income from Social Security. Additionally, as a Wellpoint member, Glen received a 50% discount on his first month’s rent, further easing the transition into stable housing.

To address remaining financial barriers, the Housing Navigator is requesting assistance through Wellpoint Flex Funds to cover the $250 security deposit. Glen expressed deep gratitude for the support he received, sharing that Prospera Housing and Community Services had become his “safe place” during a time of extreme uncertainty.

In addition to securing housing, the Housing Navigator identified that Glen qualifies for provider services due to his disability. However, his ongoing homelessness had previously prevented him from accessing these benefits. With stable housing now secured, the Housing Navigator has initiated the process to ensure provider services are in place once Glen and his wife move into their new apartment.

This outcome reflects the Housing Navigator’s persistence, advocacy, and holistic approach to addressing housing instability. Glen’s journey illustrates how coordinated housing navigation, supportive services, and targeted resources can restore stability, dignity, and hope for members experiencing long-term housing insecurity.