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Sonoma County – Robin's Story

Submitted by: Sonoma County

Robin and her youngest son were one of the approximately 50,000 Medi-Cal beneficiaries in Sonoma County that are served by the CalWIN system.

Robin moved to Annapolis in rural Sonoma County when she was 19 because she wanted get back to basics. Although her friends jokingly called her “Pioneer Woman” she remained for decades in this town in the redwoods where she married and raised their three sons. The father of her children was in and out of their lives until he passed away.

Employment opportunities are scarce in this remote area but Robin was able to get a job with State Parks as a history interpreter. She would give tours of Fort Ross often dressed up in period costume. Her children sometimes joined her and they too wore clothing reflective of the historical era.

Her employment was seasonal and to ensure health coverage for herself and her children she had to apply for Medi-Cal. Her sons were active and played sports. Medi-Cal gave Robin a peace of mind knowing that, if needed, they had health insurance.

Her two oldest sons are now serving in the Armed Forces and in January Robin was hired into a full-time permanent position with State Parks. She now has health benefits through her employment.

Robin appreciated the kindness shown by the staff of the Human Services Department so much that she wrote a thank you letter to the Division Director. In it she wrote:

Please let your staff know how grateful I am and how the services and care provided does make a difference. There are many people who really do need this service. I was one of them. You all made a difference in my life.