‘Nobody wants to go to a shelter, but my kids and I are appreciative:’ Nazareth Resident Determined to Find Permanent Home for Her Family

If it weren’t for Catholic Charities Boston’s Nazareth Family Shelter, Eva and her family may be living on the streets this winter. 

When the family’s Chelsea apartment became infested with mice and mold, Eva said they had no choice but to leave, knowing that the conditions posed health risks for herself and her three children. 

“It was completely unlivable,” said Eva. “We reached out to the Department of Transitional Housing, and luckily they had two rooms for us at Nazareth.” 

At the time, Eva simply wanted a safe place for her children to sleep at night, with a roof over their heads. She came to find that Nazareth is much more than that – beyond being a shelter, it became a place for her family to find a compassionate support system and get back on their feet.  

“I wasn’t happy at first, nobody wants to go to a shelter,” said Eva. “But we became comfortable. My kids and I are very appreciative.” 

While Eva’s two older children attend school, she works with housing case manager Urgessa Tura every week to explore and submit applications for permanent housing. With the increasingly high cost of living, Eva said they have yet to find an option they can afford, but she refuses to give up, determined to find a secure home for her children. 

“Eva’s unwavering resilience shines as she tirelessly balances caring for her three children with her relentless pursuit of a stable home,” said Urgessa. “Week after week, despite the challenges of a competitive housing market, she is driven by her dedication to secure a safe haven for her family. Her close collaboration with the case management team and her steady determination are starting to pay off, as she’s now actively screening for state-funded housing programs.” 

Beyond supporting her search for housing, Eva said the staff helped enroll her youngest son in a local childcare program. Just a few weeks ago, Nazareth staff helped Eva to organize a birthday celebration for him with other Nazareth families.  

“We invited all the residents and the other children,” Eva said. “My son was very happy.” 

When Eva thinks about the future, she said, above all, what she wants to achieve is stability. 

“I am looking forward to getting our own apartment for my kids. That’s what motivates me and keeps me on my feet.” 

To learn more about how you can support Catholic Charities Boston’s clients in need, visit our Ways to Give page.