STORIES

Ben’s Story

A month before turning 18, Ben arrived at Preble Street after having stayed at multiple foster homes and youth shelters. Over the course of the spring and summer, Teen Services staff — along with collaborative partners — provided Ben the structure and stability he desperately wanted and needed. Ben gained employment and was accepted into a residential program in northern Maine where he lives now.

During his most recent call to the Teen Center, Ben reported to staff and other youth that he loves his new program and home, and expressed excitement about having his own room and making new friends.

Ben is one of many youth in whose story we are privileged to play a part.

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Erin’s Story

Erin’s Story On a beautiful, sunny day in May, Erin talks about her home with a bright smile on her face. “It’s so comforting to know you’re home. It’s your home. It’s just a sense of security you don’t have when you’re in the shelter.” Five years ago, Erin and her partner, Jackson, lost their

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Nick’s Story

Nickolas has an easy smile and an incredible self-awareness that seems uncommon among people in their mid to late twenties. Growing up, he lived with his siblings and his mother, who did her best to raise her children, but suffered from substance use disorder. After aging out of foster care at age 18, Nickolas experienced

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Dominick’s Story

Twenty-one-year-old Dominick is working day-by-day to build a better life for himself. A rap artist, he writes and performs songs about his experiences, hoping to ensure that Maine youth don’t feel as alone and unsupported as he did when he was younger.    “When I was fifteen, I was very angry and bitter. I was just

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