Ana — Thankful for a Great Community

Ana, 63, grew up in Boston. She lives with a disability that has made living on her own challenging; however, she has worked to overcome those obstacles and remain independent.

“I had rented a room and lived with my dog in Dorchester for many years,” Ana says. “Eventually I got priced out. I tried to find an apartment with some family members, but that didn’t work out.”

Ana ended up on the street, but realized that staying on the streets was challenging — and sometimes dangerous. She began staying at Yawkey House shelter.

“The staff told me there was an apartment available in a great building in Dorchester,” Ana says. “After five years without a home, I was incredibly happy to learn that I would be able to move into a place of my own.”

Four years later, Ana is in that same apartment. “I’m so grateful for this home. My grandkids can visit, and the staff are welcoming and supportive. I have made several friends. We share the kitchen, and I love to cook big meals for the other tenants. It’s a great community,” Ana says.

“Sometimes when I pass by the area where I stayed on the streets, it reminds me of everything I went through,” Ana reflects. “It’s traumatizing to stay on the streets. I’m thankful to Pine Street for giving me the opportunity to move on. My hope is that others will turn to Pine Street too. Look at me — it’s never too late!”