When Russell’s seasonable job ended six years ago, he was unable to afford the rent on his apartment and began living in his truck. Then a deer jumped through one of the truck’s windows and totaled it — in the middle of winter. “I had no job, no truck, and no place to live,” said the retired heavy equipment operator and native Mainer.

Russell lived in a homeless shelter for a while and eventually found a home with Avesta in South Portland. Now he gives back by volunteering and collecting returnables, the proceeds from which he donates to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.

“Since I’ve been with Avesta Housing, my life has turned around completely,” he said. “They don’t just give you a home – they give you hope.”