Maureen’s Journey: A New Chapter at 69

At 69 years old, Maureen Feely found herself in a position she never expected—without a home. After decades of stability, her life unraveled when her mother passed away. She stayed with her son for a while, and then at a motel for 20 days. “And then I wound up here anyway,” she says. “When I first got here, I was very nervous. I kept to myself a lot for the first few weeks.”

Growing up near the beaches of New York, Maureen enjoyed sunny days by the water but weathered storms at home. Her father’s abuse led to her parents’ separation, and by her teenage years, she was navigating the chaos of addiction. “I was 17 when I started shooting dope,” she shared. “I realized, ‘Oh, you’re going down a slippery slope, Maureen. You need help.’” Thankfully she also received help
at a young age, entering rehab as soon as she understood the gravity of her situation. “I’ve never done drugs again since I was 19.”

But late in life, Maureen found herself slowly rebuilding once again. This time at Water Street Mission. Her initial uncertainty soon gave way to connection as she joined classes, built relationships, and explored her faith. “I’ve learned that you are, first, a child of God. And that God loves you, no matter what.”
Through workshops, she developed skills to manage her finances and tackle long-standing habits. “Water Street helped me with finances…to save money, because I was never a saver. But I’m not spending now,” she says with a smile.

What stood out most to Maureen, however, was how the community gave her space to reflect on her life and her value. “Where there’s life, there’s hope,” she says, “you shouldn’t give on people.”
Today, Maureen is finding optimism about the road ahead. She’s hoping to find a permanent home of her own and dreams of going to see Les Misérables with her son next year—a memory they hope to share. While her health presents ongoing challenges, including upcoming medical procedures, she remains hopeful, planning to volunteer with animals when she can.

For Maureen, Water Street Mission has been more than a shelter. It’s been a source of dignity and a reminder that she still has something to give. “It’s a wonderful place,” she said. “You get meals, a place to land your head, counseling, medical care, and spiritual help. It helps a lot of people from all walks of life.”
To anyone who supports Water Street, Maureen has a message. “I appreciate them. I pray for them and thank them,” she says.

Your generosity—whether through prayers, donations, or time spent volunteering—makes stories like Maureen’s possible. By supporting Water Street Mission, you’re not just providing meals or a safe place to sleep—you’re offering dignity, hope, and a chance for people to rebuild their lives. On behalf of Maureen and so many others, thank you for standing alongside them in their journey. •

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