Charisa W. — A Safe, Stable Place to Live

Starting in early childhood, Charisa experienced challenges in her life. Charisa’s father was not present, and her mother struggled as a single parent. Her aunt and uncle then became her primary caregivers, and Charisa went to live with them.

“Over the years, my aunt and uncle developed substance use issues,” Charisa says. “Money was often tight. Eventually, they could no longer pay the bills and lost their house. It was a tense situation, so I decided to live on my own. I had a job working in retail, but rents were very high. I struggled to pay my rent and eventually became homeless.”

During the months without a stable place to live, she stayed at several shelters and focused on finding a permanent home. “I learned about 140 Clarendon Street through my Pine Street Inn case manager,” Charisa says. “It’s nice and newly renovated, and I was one of the first tenants to move in. The staff has been extremely helpful. Moving here was a breath of fresh air.”

Now, Charisa is looking ahead as she completes her associate’s degree in early childhood education. “In high school, I worked as a counselor at a day camp,” Charisa says. “I love working with kids, and I knew that’s what I wanted for a career. I went to community college for a year. I’ve had to take time off, but I’m motivated to finish my associate’s degree and then my bachelor’s. I want to become a teacher so I can give kids the support I never got.”

Charisa continues, “I’m thrilled that I found a safe, stable place to live. I know there are many people struggling, but if you’re looking for a home, don’t give up. The process can take a while, but it is worth it in the end. I feel very blessed to have found Pine Street and my new apartment.”