Ali — Finding Hope After Loss

Ali worked in the housekeeping and maintenance industry for 15 years, building a life for himself. At the same time, he struggled with depression and alcoholism that escalated over the years, eventually resulting in homelessness.

“I came to Boston in 1997 after a war in my home country,” Ali says. “During the war, I lost my wife, daughter and son. Over time, my depression worsened, and I began drinking to cope with the pain from losing my family.”

Ali was homeless for almost nine years. “Life on the street was hard, and hope was difficult to hold on to,” shares Ali. That began to change the day Pine Street Inn’s outreach team connected with him. “They gave me food and blankets and showed kindness,” Ali recalls. “Most importantly, they helped me find housing in one of their residences. Moving in was the happiest day for me!”

Once in a safe, stable home, Ali worked with Pine Street’s housing clinicians. “They have helped with my recovery, and I’m learning to manage my depression,” shares Ali. “I wouldn’t be here without Pine Street’s help.”

Now, Ali focuses on finding meaning in small, daily moments. “I spend time with my friends, go to the library and take long walks,” he says. “That gives me hope — to keep living, day by day.”