Darryl — “I’m Happier Than I’ve Ever Been”

Darryl grew up in Boston in a hard-working family. “My father worked in factories and my mother was a nurse,” Darryl says. “I had a learning disability growing up, and as a result, I was never very interested in school. I went straight to work when I finished high school — doing odd jobs, which kept me employed for many years.”

While Darryl worked consistently, he never earned enough to afford a place of his own. “I would bounce back and forth from my parents’ house to my sister’s — just trying to get my life together. Finally, I ended up moving in with my girlfriend. Unfortunately, when that relationship ended, I became homeless.”

Not wanting to burden his family, Darryl found himself with no place to turn. “While I was homeless, I met some people who were staying at Pine Street,” Darryl says. “I knew that I couldn’t live on the street. I ended up staying at the shelter for about five years.”

While at Pine Street, Darryl discovered the iCater Workforce Development Program. “I was very lucky to find out about iCater,” Darryl says. “The staff were wonderful. They helped and supported me the entire time, and even helped me find the job I have today.”

Pine Street also helped Darryl find an apartment. “I like having a place of my own,” Darryl says. “My daughter and granddaughter live close by, so we visit often. I’m happier than I’ve ever been. Pine Street pretty much saved my life.”