Iouri K. — Pine Street was There for Me When I Needed Support

Iouri K. immigrated to the United States in the early 1990’s with his wife following the collapse of the former Soviet Union. He came to experience the “American dream” and did.

A hard worker, Iouri built a successful moving business in Boston. “My wife and I came to the United States., learned the language, built a great business, had a home and a wonderful life,” Iouri says. “Things were great for many years, but when the pandemic hit, my business collapsed. There was a lot of stress on our family, and my wife and I separated. I found myself suddenly alone.”

Iouri lived on his savings for as long as he could, often staying in hotels, but that was not a sustainable plan. When his savings ran out, he slept on the streets, eventually coming to Pine Street Inn.

“When I came to the Men’s Inn, I was intimidated because I had never stayed in a shelter before, but it was very clean and felt very safe,” Iouri says. “The staff were supportive and connected me with services like healthcare so I could manage my medical issues. Pine Street is a welcoming place and you know they care about you.”

In February 2024, he received good news. “My case manager told me that Pine Street had an apartment available for me. It’s wonderful to have my own place.

“Everything had changed so fast — I went from owning my own business and home to losing everything,” Iouri says. “Pine Street was there for me when I needed support. I am thankful for all I have now.”