Josie had to start all over again
“ I was afraid I would lose everything, but because The Village of Oakman Manor offers affordable housing, I was able to stay. It was a blessing.”
When Josie was in her early sixties, she faced a crisis: her marriage ended and she found herself forced out of her home and into a new life.
What could have been the worst time of her life became something wonderful.
After six months she found The Village of Oakman Manor in Detroit. Donors have made The Village of Oakman Manor, and other PVM villages, more than a place to live. By giving, you reduce isolation, assist residents in financial need, and send residents to PVM’s annual senior wellness competition, the Village Victory Cup. That’s the kind of place Josie moved into—a place where you’re there for her.
“At first, I was afraid I would be lonely. This was the first time in 50 years I had to live on my own. But I have loved living at The Village of Oakman Manor so much,” said Josie.
When Josie moved in she lived in a market-rate or full-priced apartment. “I had a good job and I could afford the rent,” said Josie. THEN, things changed again. “The factory I worked for closed. I lost my job. I was afraid I would lose everything, but because The Village of Oakman Manor offers affordable housing, I was able to stay. It was a blessing.”
She’s been living at The Village of Oakman Manor for ten years now.“I don’t think I have an exciting life but I love every moment of it,” says Josie.
“I have loved living at The Village of Oakman Manor so much!”
“Every day I go downstairs and I try to make people smile and have fun. I love to see other people have a good time.”
That’s why Josie is one of the “cheerleaders” for The Village of Oakman Manor at the Village Victory Cup PVM’s senior wellness competition.
Every year she rallies her fellow residents to train for the Jun
e competition. “I can think of at least three ladies who I had to talk into going. As soon as they saw how much fun it was they got into it! Now they’re making banners and signs and outfits—they can’t wait to go back.”
Josie also spends her time helping other residents. “I’m lucky! I’m more mobile than some and I can do for others. We all watch out for each other. We’ll go to the grocery store if someone needs something, and we’re always checking in on one another.”
“I grew up very poor, and I appreciate everything anyone does for me—that’s why I like to do for others.”
