One morning, two lease-up appointments, six new residents: Welcome home to Greenstead Grove!
Morning view from the deck of the community building at Greenstead Grove
The first stop that new residents make on their way home to Greenstead Grove in Ludlow, Way Finders’ newest affordable housing development comprised of 43 units, is the freshly completed community building. In a bright space, with windows and deck overlooking a woodsy ravine, they meet with Assistant Property Manager Justin Landry for an appointment to go over final details and receive keys, followed by a thorough walk-through of their unit that precedes the signing of the lease.
“This is all I’ve ever wanted”—Sh’kena’s story
“Today is the day! I’m so excited. This is the most amazing thing for us, me and my boys,” said Sh’kena Howard, who moved in on a sunny fall day. “I’m a single parent grandma, raising two grandsons. They are nine and seven. And I have a 17-year-old son, he’s the youngest of my four, his other siblings are adults.”
With her movers expected to arrive at 11 o’clock that morning—in time for the move to be completed by the end of the school day—Howard happily took keys in hand. They, and the three-bedroom apartment they unlock, represent a fresh start for her family.
“This is a blessing for us. We really needed a new start,” said Howard, accompanied by her parents, who had driven up from Connecticut. “We came from a really bad area in Springfield, the boys couldn’t go out and play, they were always in the house. They were really excited this morning, knowing that they’re coming here right after school! They are always happy, but today they were extra happy.”
New resident Sh’kena Howard on her move-in day, fall 2025
Among the many things she’s looking forward to about her new residence? Being able to bake again—especially meatloaf and cookies—after several years of an oven that only had a functioning stovetop. Plus, having her grandsons attend elementary school right across the street. And linking up with local sources of support for parenting.
“I love meetings! I go to a lot of parent support group meetings in Springfield, where I can go and sit with other grandparents. I know I’m not the only one raising grandchildren,” said Howard, who is training for work in the hospitality field. “My seven-year-old grandson has autism. He’s a runner, he’s a full-time job.”
With a meeting space right on site, there’s a good chance Howard may even find support and friendship among her neighbors and their families.
“When [Vice President of Compliance] Amanda Bubon showed us this community room, where she said other tenants will be gathering, that’s all I’ve ever wanted. This is all I’ve ever wanted. I’m very happy,” said Howard. “I remember when I got the phone call from Justin, I had to pull the car over. He asked me, ‘Are you still interested in a unit?’ and I said, ‘Am I?! Yes!’”
“It’s a pretty common response to those calls and that question,” said Landry. “Sweet. Sh’kena, you ready for our appointment?”
“Say it one more time?”—Kylie’s story
Landry’s following appointment was with one of Greenstead Grove’s youngest residents, five-month-old Enzo, and his mother Kylie.
“I barely slept last night,” said Kylie, though not because of the baby. “I was just really happy. This is my first own apartment. I never cried so hard as when Way Finders said, ‘So, we got you a unit.’ I was like, ‘What? Say it one more time. Are you sure it was approved?’ And I made it to the final steps. This is huge.”
In moving into her two-bedroom apartment, Kylie is ready to relish the little things. Like space for just her and Enzo—and space to cook and bake.
“I have been in a homeless shelter for about a year now, a family homeless shelter,” said Kylie. “I came across the ad for Greenstead and applied. Then they did the lottery pick and I saw my number, it was very exciting. To have somewhere to call home. And the quietness and not having to report to everyone every day.”
One of Greenstead Grove’s 7 townhomes, with a total of 43 units of affordable housing
One of the first things she’s excited to do is put up her new shower curtain and take a shower. A simple pleasure, as any new parent can attest. A quick break from all things baby, to refresh and recharge.
“When I walked into my apartment the first time, I was in shock. I did not expect to see what I saw. It’s beautiful, they did a nice job,” said Kylie, who plans to host her first Thanksgiving this year. “Being here reminds me of being in my neighborhood as a kid, and running around outside and being told, ‘Be home when the lights are on.’ I can get used to Ludlow, this is nice.”
Thanks to Sh’kena and Kylie for letting us share in the excitement of their move-in days. Best wishes to you and your families and welcome home!