Voices from Highland: Ms. Yolanda

Ms. Yolanda shared her story with Ms. Carol, the then Resident Council Leader and me. She talks about her 20 years living  here. She explains how the neighborhood used to have a lot of violence but has become safer and more peaceful over time. While things aren't perfect, she feels the area is now a better place to live.

She also challenges stereotypes about affordable housing, saying that many people in her neighborhood have jobs and work hard to take care of their families. She wants others to know that not everyone living in affordable housing is irresponsible or unemployed.

She appreciates the feeling of community with cookouts, bingo nights, and cooking classes that help people connect. She also has a goal of finding a better job and moving to a nicer place someday, but for now, she enjoys her community.