Gustavo's Y Story

Many people say that the Y is like a second home to them, but for a group of individuals, the Y truly is home. The third floor of the Church Street Y is called Newton Corner Place and serves as subsidized housing for income-eligible men. Some stay for a few months, some for a few decades. All are part of the Y family. 

One of our residents, Gustavo, is a bit different from most of the others who tend to keep to themselves. Gustavo, on the other hand, is a fixture walking around the track and chatting with our Welcome Center staff and turns to us often to help him with various requests. If you’re lucky, you might hear him singing in the lobby. He also speaks very little English, which has created meaningful opportunities for connection with staff members needing to brush up on their Spanish skills. 

A few months ago, Gustavo came to the Y with a concern: he had a doctor’s appointment in Boston but couldn’t afford transportation. In true Y spirit, the team worked quickly to find a solution. With limited time to coordinate City resources, staff arranged an Uber to get him there and a taxi for his return. When he arrived back at the Y’s roundabout, he called the front desk, and a staff member went outside to meet the driver and cover the cost. The plan went smoothly. 

Later that day, Gustavo approached the team, visibly emotional. At first, there was concern something was wrong—but in fact, he simply wanted to express his thanks. He shared how anxious he had felt when the driver told him the cost, knowing he couldn’t afford it, and how relieved he was when Y staff stepped in. That small act preserved his dignity and brought him peace. As a gesture of gratitude, he gifted the staff a mug from his last visit to the Dominican Republic. 

The cost of Gustavo’s roundtrip travel was $100—an astronomical amount for him—but the impact of that support was immeasurable. In that moment, Gustavo experienced what everyone deserves in their own home: safety, support, and people who show up when it matters. That’s what it means to be part of the Y family.