Achieving Stability and a Good Job After Friends

Growing up with five younger siblings in the housing projects of Boston’s Dorchester neighborhood, Jared* had few role models in his life. While his friends were dropping out of school and getting into trouble, Jared credits his mentor, Frank, and Friends of the Children’s unconditional support for steering him down a different path.

With high school graduation in his sights, at the age of 17, Jared found himself homeless and spent two years sleeping on different couches and shelter beds. Frank was the only person who ensured Jared’s safety every night and continually reminded him of his goals and the progress he had made. Despite these challenges, Jared went on to earn his GED and landed full-time employment at a Boston hospital. He now enjoys a level of stability previously unimaginable and is making plans to go to college for music production.