Unmet human needs

Zana and John Majerly have spent a lifetime standing by one another. At 75, this couple has weathered more than most, lean times, health challenges, and the quiet, everyday hardships that test even the strongest bonds. Through it all, they’ve remained constant, with only each other and their two beloved elderly dogs, Samson and Finnegan, as their steady companions.

For a time, they called an RV in Sun Valley home. It wasn’t much, but it was theirs. Then, in an instant, everything changed. A fire tore through their RV, destroying what little they had and leaving them with nothing but the clothes they could carry and each other.

In the aftermath, they turned to Catholic Charities’ Sun Valley Food Pantry, unsure of what would come next. What they found there was not just food, but a path forward. With guidance from staff, they connected with the Red Cross, whose support helped secure a few nights in a hotel, one that would allow Samson and Finnegan to stay by their side.

From there, a network of care began to form around them. At our 4th Street campus, Niki and Lisa stepped in. Together, they worked toward something that once felt out of reach: a permanent home. They found an opening at in an apartment complex for seniors where Zana and John could begin again with dignity and security.

There were still hurdles. Catholic Charities helped cover additional weeks in the hotel while plans came together. John found a part-time job at Walmart, determined to contribute in any way he could. Then, another setback, Zana suffered a heart attack, likely brought on by the overwhelming stress of it all. Even then, the support did not waver. Niki connected her to Care Chest for affordable medications and encouraged her to obtain a “food prescription,” ensuring access to the nutritious meals she now needs through Renown’s pantry and our own.

Slowly, piece by piece, stability returned. Gas vouchers helped them get to appointments. Gift cards covered essential items. Through Washoe County’s Senior Rescue program, they secured rental assistance that will help sustain them for the year ahead. And when they move into their new apartment, Lisa will make sure it feels like home—furnishings and all—through I Got You Reno.

Today, Zana and John are filled with something that felt distant not long ago: relief. Gratitude. Hope. After losing everything, they are not just surviving—they are beginning again, together, in a place they can finally call home.