Don’t be ashamed

Often times we find ourselves in situations beyond our control. Not often does one choose to have to live in subsidized housing. Due to certain circumstances and situations, I and my family found ourselves doing just that. It’s not as great and spectacular as some think and not as terrible as others have stated — it is a good program when needed and one sometimes taken advantage of.

Even though subsidized housing is good for a time, in my opinion it needs to be revamped. Having lived in Brewer Housing, I can attest to this fact. Although I have been fortunate enough to purchase my own home recently, others unfortunately are not able to do the same. Due to the way the system works, most simgle mothers here in the development seem to be locked into it. They get a job, day care for their children and feel they are finally on their way to independence, only to be notified that due to their employment, their rent has gone up; they have begun to almost instantly lose their benefits. What sense does it make for them to work? I am not talking about a free ride for anyone. Just a chance for one to get on their feet before expecting them to be completely independent of all help and aid.

As for the gentleman on Eastern Avenue who feels that because no one in Brewer Housing “pays any taxes,” they don’t deserve tax dollars being spent to benefit the children (re: bus turnaround on Rinfret), he needs to be re-educated. Some of us pay taxes weekly from our paychecks just like everyone else. I work full time, pay my own health insurance and have the same taxes taken out of my (wages) as anyone else. I may not pay property tax in Brewer, but tell me of anyone who rents that pays property taxes? When our income goes up, so does our rent. Some people in housing probably pay more in rent than some do for a house payment.

One should not need to feel ashamed to find himself living in low-income housing. Don’t judge everyone by a few bad examples. As far as I can see, everyone here eats, sleeps, breathes and looks human. Why should they be treated less than?

Thank you Brewer Housing for being there for me. Keep helping and encouraging others to become independent and be patient with them while they try to establish themselves in a place in society. Carolyn Hersey Brewer