Meet Jodi Nottger, Human Services Coordinator
Meet Jodi Nottger, Human Services Coordinator
St. Paul Public Housing Agency, A Bridging Agency Partner
Q: What do you do in your role at St. Paul Public Housing Agency?
A: I am one of eight Human Services Coordinators. We provide resources for residents in our 16 high-rise buildings. We also support families in four different sites across St. Paul. We help residents get connected with resources they need, like furnishings at Bridging, food, healthcare, financial assistance, and other services that may help people be successful in maintaining their housing stability.
It can be embarrassing to say, “I need money, food, or a bed.” We need to be a safe space for someone to come, where they feel no judgment.
Q: What do you like best about your job?
A: Interacting with residents. When something happens that’s good, it is such a good feeling to be a part of their joy. It’s such an honor to be with them on this journey. That’s why I come to work every day, to see their success. It’s a privilege to walk alongside people.
Q: What do you find most challenging? Cuts to emergency rental assistance funding for people when they get behind on their rent. It has been difficult for residents. Resources are shrinking. There needs to be more resources available to help people stay current on their rent when life gets in the way.
A: How do residents connect with Bridging? How does the process work?
When someone needs Bridging, I get online, and the resident sits right beside me as we make the appointment. I will explain what the warehouse looks like, and what it will be like to shop for furnishings for their homes. I help them think about their space, and what they want and need.
If we have questions, we communicate with Amy Miller, Bridging’s client services specialist. The service is so efficient and helpful!
Q: How do you see the impact of Bridging on the residents you serve?
A: Bridging is really personalized. I’ll hear someone say, “I can choose what I want.” The volunteers take the time to get to know them. Residents come back, and they’re so excited. It may be the first time that residents have new or matching furniture. They say things like “I’m sleeping in a bed. I have place to sit, and dishes to eat meals.” Their home becomes a safe and comfortable place.
Q: Do you have a Bridging story you would like to share?
A: I worked with a client who was so overjoyed after he went to Bridging. He chose a blue floral couch. It was such good quality. He knew it would be so comfortable. He showed me his new table with matching blue floral dishes, wine glasses, cups, and saucers. He said, “I’m so happy. It’s mine.” He was excited to have people over. He took great pride in his home.
SPPHA helps families and individuals with low incomes achieve greater stability and self-reliance by providing safe, affordable, quality housing and links to community services. SPPHA owns and manages over 4,200 homes and administers housing subsidies to an additional 5,200 households, providing deeply affordable housing to over 20,000 individuals in the City of St. Paul.. Learn more about SPPHA.