Dude, I run a non-profit here in town helping people find jobs, education, ID for when they are just out of jail, housing for when they are on the street, find them healthcare and medications for when they can't afford it or are mentally ill, work with prostitutes and runaways trying to get off the streets, etc.
I know all about the struggle - that's why I do what I do for a living. This same former coworker was a nice guy who eventually died as a result of not being able to afford insulin for his Type 1 diabetes. I work hard every day to help people who are struggling, it is my life.
I was just warning whomever OP is that if you don't respond to the system, and they want to dick you around, they can totally fuck up your life. The poor man always comes out on the bottom of the courts and justice system.