For Donald, the path to stable housing wasn’t easy.
“I had some difficult days. There were times when I wanted to throw in the towel.”
For years, he moved from place to place, facing mistreatment and instability. Housing never felt secure, and often he was left feeling unsafe and unwelcome. There were moments when it felt like every step forward came with another setback.
Everything began to change when he and his case manager from ADAMH submitted an application for housing at Poplar Fen Place. The day Donald toured the building, he had the powerful realization that this would be his new home.
“This is the first apartment building that I’ve ever lived in where the apartments came furnished,” he exclaimed. “It was just what I imagined. It was spectacular.”
Having his own space, with full-sized kitchen appliances, ample closet space, and an accessible shower, has made all the difference. No longer sharing space or adjusting to someone else’s schedule, Donald finally feels at ease in his own home.
He now enjoys the freedom of daily life: eating meals when he wants, decorating his apartment with pieces he picks out himself, and joining in on community activities like Bingo. But beyond the physical comforts, it’s the sense of dignity and safety that means the most.
“I love it here because I feel safe. It’s quiet. I don’t have to worry about being harassed or bullied.”
He credits the building’s staff, including Danyell (pictured), a Service Coordinator from Concord Counseling Services, for helping residents feel cared for and connected. Donald found a place where he can truly be himself.
“I’m thrilled to be here, and I can honestly say from the bottom of my heart, I don’t intend on moving anywhere else,” he said. “I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else. I feel like I’m living large.”
