Leroy W. — Grateful for His Home

Leroy came to the United States from Jamaica, looking for career opportunities. While he originally lived in Florida, he moved to Boston for a promising career as a cook at a busy Jamaican restaurant.

When several serious health issues made it difficult for Leroy to work a full-time schedule, his medical bills mounted, and Leroy quickly went through his savings. When he could no longer afford his apartment, he became homeless.

Leroy turned to Pine Street Inn’s shelter looking for a safe place to stay while he searched for housing. He worked with his case manager to secure an apartment in one of Pine Street’s supportive housing locations in the South End.

Now, Leroy enjoys his home and appreciates the freedoms that an apartment provides as he works through his health issues. “If I’m going to the doctor, I don’t have to bring all my possessions with me, like I did when I was in a shelter. I can leave them at my home,” Leroy says.

“I’ve lived here for four years. I like to take walks in the park nearby, and after a long day, I can relax in my apartment or with friends in the building,” Leroy says. “Everyone enjoys spending time with each other. We eat lunch together, make dinner as a group and watch TV. I am so grateful to have a place to call my own.”