Evidence shows that immigrants have a positive impact on our country: they give more than they take. When the next generation comes into the picture, the benefits are multiplied. Meet Rosanna!

Rosanna moved from the Dominican Republic with her three children nearly six years ago in search of opportunity and stability. What she found were challenges – but also support and community. And everything she learned, she poured into her children.  

When she first came to JPNDC, she was earning $10 an hour and could barely afford a single room for all four of them. Joanne, JPNDC's Associate Director of Economic Mobility Services, helped her focus first on housing.  

"You don't always find someone like Joanne," Rosanna said. "She made me feel normal and worthy of support."  

With the pandemic raging, Joanne helped Rosanna navigate the complicated process of applying for Section 8. And in keeping with JPNDC's philosophy of seeing the whole person, Joanne asked her what her other goals might be.  

So in addition to securing a voucher that allowed her to stay in Boston's high-rent market – a moment Rosanna will never forget – she worked with Joanne to improve her credit, enroll and complete job training, and obtain a catering job she enjoys and which allows her to support her family as well as save. What is she most proud of?  Becoming a US citizen.  

"This is home now for my kids and me," she said. 

As for her children, "I've taught them everything I've learned from Joanne," Rosanna said. Her two oldest sons have learned about saving, credit, and the value of hard work. Each has purchased his own car. One of them runs a small snack business during the summer and has already saved three thousand dollars.   

"They are preparing themselves for the future. That's what matters most to me."  

After passing her citizenship test, Rosanna's focus shifted to her next goal: buying a home. Her oldest son is on board to help her, and together they are completing a first-time homebuyer course. Her savings are growing.  

Through her own strength plus JPNDC's support, she has built a life filled with purpose and progress. And in guiding her children toward a brighter future, Rosanna is making our whole community stronger.  

Do you know someone who is having a hard time finding housing or securing a job? JPNDC can help! Contact us at prosperityservices@jpndc.org.