Who We Are
The Orange County SOAR Collaborative (SOAR = SSI/SSDI Outreach, Access & Recovery) is a county-wide effort to help individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness submit successful applications for Social Security disability benefits (SSI/SSDI). It’s led locally through the Orange County Partnership to End Homelessness (OCPEH), which coordinates referrals, sets community goals, troubleshoots challenges, and works toward achieving SOAR Community Certification in partnership with the Orange County community partners.
How We Help
Our SOAR-trained caseworker guides eligible individuals through every step of the SSI/SSDI application process. They gather medical documentation, prepare detailed Medical Summary Reports, and act as non-attorney disability representatives communicating directly with the Social Security Administration to expedite decisions. This increases approval rates and reduces wait time compared to standard applications. In North Carolina, SSI benefits secured via SOAR have reached nearly $490 million over the past 17 years. Our local SOAR caseworker in Orange County manages incoming referrals, submits applications, tracks outcomes, and convenes quarterly collaborative meetings to review progress and maintain certification standards.
SOAR Referrals
To make a SOAR referral, please click this link and send a Client Consent to Exchange Information to SOAR@orangecountync.gov.
How To Contact Us
For questions or additional information about the SOAR Collaborative in Orange County, please contact:
Heather Pack Aponte, MPH
Homeless Programs Coordinator & SOAR Local Lead
Email: hpackaponte@orangecountync.gov
Phone: (919) 245-6729