Marylyn Johnson, known affectionately as “Mema,” has been a fixture at the Dorchester Head Start program for years. The 75‑year‑old volunteer works with the Foster Grandparent Program run by Action for Boston Community Development (ABCD), greeting preschoolers each morning and earning the nickname “the girl in purple” from parents who recognize her dedication.
Housing voucher terminated, leaving her homeless
Johnson’s own housing situation fell apart when an administrative error caused her housing voucher to be terminated. “By the time I got back home, the padlock was on the door,” she recalled, describing a note that read, “stay off the premises.” Her mattress and box spring were discarded, and she now rents a single room while paying for multiple U‑Haul storage units to keep her belongings.
“That’s my Social Security check right there,” Johnson said, noting that the storage costs consume a large portion of her fixed income.
Continuing to serve the children
Despite the personal setback, Johnson remains committed to the children she helps care for. She often arrives before sunrise, eager to be the first adult the kids see when the center opens. “The babies keep my mind off of it,” she said, emphasizing that her work gives her purpose and hope.
Housing scarcity hits seniors hard
Johnson’s experience reflects a broader crisis for seniors on fixed incomes in Massachusetts. She reports that some housing providers give wait times of two to five years for an available unit. “It’s a long haul,” she said, echoing the frustration many older residents feel as rents rise and the cost of living climbs.
She added, “I’ve been working for years, two or three jobs just to keep myself afloat. Especially after I lost my husband, things are hard now because everything just shot up. Every year it’s an increase.”
ABCD sees growing demand for assistance
ABCD, the nonprofit that connects volunteers like Johnson to services, says demand for help is surging. Sharon Scott Chandler, President and CEO of ABCD, noted, “Working families, more and more are seeking our help. It always was the case, but we’re seeing more people who are in financial crisis now than last year. It’s a different face of economic hardship.”
Chandler urged anyone struggling to reach out to one of ABCD’s neighborhood service centers, stressing that assistance can be temporary or long‑term, but even a little help can alleviate stress and protect mental health.
Looking ahead
Johnson remains hopeful. “I just keep saying something’s gonna come my way soon. I just gotta keep patient. I’m still putting in applications. Something’s gonna give. I’m gonna be alright,” she said.
Her story underscores the importance of community support for seniors and volunteers who give so much to the next generation, even as they face personal hardships.
Original reporting: NBC10 Boston — read the source article.
