Wayne — Starting Over

Wayne, 53, grew up in South Boston. From a young age, he knew he wanted to move beyond his neighborhood and experience more of the world. “I wanted to take my life beyond my local community,” Wayne says. “When I was 17, I joined the United States Marine Corps. I saw combat in Desert Storm and suffered several combat-related injuries.”

Once out of the service, Wayne returned to his old neighborhood. “I tried to integrate back into civilian life,” Wayne says. “Then, several of my family members died within a few months, including my mother. I became depressed and began to struggle with substance use disorder. I became homeless and ended up at Pine Street Inn.

Wayne stayed at the Men’s Inn for four years. During that time, he worked with a case manager who helped him enter treatment for his substance use and supported him until he was ready to look for housing.

“I wanted a place that allowed me to focus on my recovery and my health,” Wayne says. “I’ve now lived in this apartment for 10 years. I love it here and have been able to stay in recovery.” Wayne continues, “When I was struggling with substance use and homelessness, I remember thinking: ‘Do I want to live, or do I want to die?”

“I’m very thankful for the home I have here and for the staff who have supported me along the way.”