Mary Lynn spent 18 years in finance, beginning as a receptionist and eventually earning her broker’s license to work at Smith Barney. Following a difficult marriage, divorce, and increasing anxiety, she was no longer able to continue working. After losing stable housing and having her youngest son move in with his father, she faced a period of significant transition.

With support from the Board of Social Services, Mary stayed at the YMCA before moving into transitional housing in South Bound Brook. She later spent two years in a shared home through Alternatives, eventually using her pension to secure her own apartment and working part-time at the Office on Aging.

After a setback that led to job loss, housing instability, and disconnection from services, Mary reconnected with Alternatives. With their support, she stabilized her health, secured disability benefits, and returned to independent living—ultimately obtaining her own apartment and, after an eight-year wait, a spot in low-income housing.

Now 65, Mary has been connected to Alternatives for more than a decade. In May, she proudly graduated Cum Laude from Raritan Valley Community College with a degree in pre-Social Work, crediting Alternatives as a key part of her journey.

Mary continues to give back through volunteer work, including four years with SHIP, service at the St. Francis Inn Soup Kitchen in Philadelphia, and leading financial literacy seminars. She also completed an internship at the Agape House.

Family remains central to her life. One son lives in Colorado Springs with his family, and the other in Jersey City. She stays closely connected to both.

Reflecting on her journey, Mary shares, “Heather and Laura helped me through some very tough times. Alternatives gave me the support and encouragement I needed to move forward and accomplish goals I never thought possible.”