Codman Square

“We moved into a beautiful house. We were going to renovate it, sell it, make a killing, move to the suburbs. We ended up falling in love with the neighborhood.”
– Candice Gartley

Dorchester’s Codman Square used to be considered one of the most dangerous areas in Boston. Violence, drugs and prostitution were rampant. There is still work to be done, but with a pivotal health center and the efforts of several community groups, the neighborhood’s diverse residents and merchants are making Codman safer and more prosperous.

  • Children blow bubbles in Codman Square Park. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    Children blow bubbles in Codman Square Park. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • A bicyclist rides in midday traffic north on Washington Street through Codman Square. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • Two women stand in front of Walgreens waiting for the rain to subside. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • A truck driver drags a pallet in the front of a mural on Kenwood Street. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    A truck driver drags a pallet in the front of a mural on Kenwood Street. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • Tito, left, argues with a delivery driver and a worker from the supermarket next door to his shop for unloading in front of his store. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    Tito, left, argues with a delivery driver and a worker from the supermarket next door to his shop for unloading in front of his store. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • Lack of quality housing is a major issue facing the residents of Codman Square. This boarded up and condemned building sits on the corner of Washington and Lyndhurst streets. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    Lack of quality housing is a major issue facing the residents of Codman Square. This boarded up and condemned building sits on the corner of Washington and Lyndhurst streets. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • Karlee McIver uses a pole to reach for a wig a patron is interested in at the Looking Good Fashion Store on Washington Street. McIver's mother, Kim, owns the store and believes businesses in Codman Square need to communicate more to continue revitalizing the area. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    Karlee McIver uses a pole to reach for a wig a patron is interested in at the Looking Good Fashion Store on Washington Street. McIver's mother, Kim, owns the store and believes businesses in Codman Square need to communicate more to continue revitalizing the area. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • McIver assists Luvey Howell with a wig she is interested in buying. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    McIver assists Luvey Howell with a wig she is interested in buying. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • Codman Square residents Jeewan Mungal and Alvin Narine both feel the neighborhood needs stronger police presence at night because drugs and violence are still a problem. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    Codman Square residents Jeewan Mungal and Alvin Narine both feel the neighborhood needs stronger police presence at night because drugs and violence are still a problem. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • Mike, who did not provide his last name, gets a trim at the In The Cut Barber Shop. A picture of Nelson Mandela hangs on the wall next to the mirror as a symbol of peace. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    Mike, who did not provide his last name, gets a trim at the In The Cut Barber Shop. A picture of Nelson Mandela hangs on the wall next to the mirror as a symbol of peace. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • The Second Church of Dorchester was built in 1805 and is a historic landmark. Codman Square was named after its first minister, John Codman. The bell tower was cast by Paul Revere & Son. Daniel Webster and John Adams were among the notable parishioners. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    The Second Church of Dorchester was built in 1805 and is a historic landmark. Codman Square was named after its first minister, John Codman. The bell tower was cast by Paul Revere & Son. Daniel Webster and John Adams were among the notable parishioners. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • Rodney Redden walks down the aisle of the sanctuary room of the Second Church, which he volunteered to help refurbish. He also plays guitar for the Sunday service. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    Rodney Redden walks down the aisle of the sanctuary room of the Second Church, which he volunteered to help refurbish. He also plays guitar for the Sunday service. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • Codman Square farmer's market organizers The Rev. Bill Loesch and his daughter Cynthia give directions to the B.O.L.D. Teens group on how to fill out voter registration forms. The teens were dispatched into Codman Square to register voters before the preliminary vote for mayor. The group, which has played a large role in the neighborhood's transformation, led the effort to ban the sale of nicotine products in Boston pharmacies. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    Codman Square farmer's market organizers The Rev. Bill Loesch and his daughter Cynthia give directions to the B.O.L.D. Teens group on how to fill out voter registration forms. The teens were dispatched into Codman Square to register voters before the preliminary vote for mayor. The group, which has played a large role in the neighborhood's transformation, led the effort to ban the sale of nicotine products in Boston pharmacies. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • Alfred Lewis, a Codman Square native, browses the variety of beans at the farmer's market, now in its sixth season. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    Alfred Lewis, a Codman Square native, browses the variety of beans at the farmer's market, now in its sixth season. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • Brianne Scollins of the MGH Accelerated Nurses Program, teaches De'lea O'Farro, of Codman Square, how to check someone's blood pressure. The nurse's tent at the farmer's market is part of a program to promote healthy eating and living to residents. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    Brianne Scollins of the MGH Accelerated Nurses Program, teaches De'lea O'Farro, of Codman Square, how to check someone's blood pressure. The nurse's tent at the farmer's market is part of a program to promote healthy eating and living to residents. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • The Knight family is seeking a better quality of life. They hope to move into a new home near Melville Avenue, where they say the houses have more green space. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    The Knight family is seeking a better quality of life. They hope to move into a new home near Melville Avenue, where they say the houses have more green space. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • Kenneth Lowe, who grew up in the Franklin Hill projects, lived in Codman Square for 35 years before moving to Huntsville, Ala. He is back visiting his family because of the untimely death of his sister. He says Codman looks a lot better than it did when he left and he looks forward to moving back to care for his aging mother. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    Kenneth Lowe, who grew up in the Franklin Hill projects, lived in Codman Square for 35 years before moving to Huntsville, Ala. He is back visiting his family because of the untimely death of his sister. He says Codman looks a lot better than it did when he left and he looks forward to moving back to care for his aging mother. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)

Andrew Square

“We would like to see more of the gentrification come to Andrew Square that maybe other parts of South Boston have already seen.”
– Peter Szyjka, business owner

Once an Irish enclave, South Boston has changed dramatically in the last 20 years, with the opening of the Boston Convention Center and the development of the waterfront. But Andrew Square — which sits at the very western edge of the neighborhood — is maybe the part of Southie that has changed the least. Residents there are seeking some of the improvements other parts of their neighborhood have enjoyed, like safer streets and more development.

  • Andrew Square sits at the very western edge of South Boston, flattened up against the Expressway, rail yards and the South Bay Shopping Center. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
  • "My mother and grandparents lived here. My daughter couldn't live in Southie because of the housing cost and the cost of Catholic schools here," said Anne Brennan, who has seen housing prices rise with the construction of new condos. "The kids of friends my age, none of them live in Southie." (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
  • Andrew Square is a neighborhood in transition. Pictured here, two houses on the edge of Andrew Square, one renovated and the other in need of repair. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
  • Claudia Osorio, left, would like to see tutoring programs for kids in the housing projects, since parents with limited English struggle to help with homework. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
  • The Andrew Square MBTA station. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
    The Andrew Square MBTA station. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
  • This mural, painted in 2009 by members of the Andrew Square Civic Association, shows the streetcars that used to run through the square. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
    This mural, painted in 2009 by members of the Andrew Square Civic Association, shows the streetcars that used to run through the square. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
  • Vacant storefronts on Dorchester Street. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
    Vacant storefronts on Dorchester Street. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
  • Betty Flaherty, chairperson of the West Broadway Task Force, is looking for a new face to run City Hall. "I honestly have to say, the mayor we have now, I don't think he's done anything for South Boston," she says. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
    Betty Flaherty, chairperson of the West Broadway Task Force, is looking for a new face to run City Hall. "I honestly have to say, the mayor we have now, I don't think he's done anything for South Boston," she says. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
  • Hubway has brought another form of public transport the square, just a short ride from downtown. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
    Hubway has brought another form of public transport the square, just a short ride from downtown. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
  • Outside the West Broadway housing project, Julia Flashner unpacks produce from Fair Foods, a nonprofit that offers large bags of fresh fruits and vegetables for a suggested donation of $2. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
    Outside the West Broadway housing project, Julia Flashner unpacks produce from Fair Foods, a nonprofit that offers large bags of fresh fruits and vegetables for a suggested donation of $2. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
  • A bicyclist rides through Andrew Square, where six streets converge. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
    A bicyclist rides through Andrew Square, where six streets converge. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
  • Alexandra Papagno teaches a class at South Boston en Acción, a Latino community leadership group that meets in the basement of a building in the Mary Ellen McCormack housing projects. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
    Alexandra Papagno teaches a class at South Boston en Acción, a Latino community leadership group that meets in the basement of a building in the Mary Ellen McCormack housing projects. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
  • Thaddeus Barcikowski opened Cafe Polonia on Dorchester Avenue 11 years ago. It lies at the tip of South Boston and Dorchester's "Polish Triangle." Despite increasing taxes, Barcikowski says he's staying in the business because it is his passion. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
    Thaddeus Barcikowski opened Cafe Polonia on Dorchester Avenue 11 years ago. It lies at the tip of South Boston and Dorchester's "Polish Triangle." Despite increasing taxes, Barcikowski says he's staying in the business because it is his passion. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
  • New construction under way along Old Colony Avenue opposite a mayoral campaign poster. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
    New construction under way along Old Colony Avenue opposite a mayoral campaign poster. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
  • Joanna Barcikowski, whose husband owns Café Polonia, runs the Baltic European Deli near Andrew Square. "Andrew Square is much changed," she says. "A lot of new buildings, a lot of new people. I have new customers, so it's better and better." (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
    Joanna Barcikowski, whose husband owns Café Polonia, runs the Baltic European Deli near Andrew Square. "Andrew Square is much changed," she says. "A lot of new buildings, a lot of new people. I have new customers, so it's better and better." (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)

Dudley Square

“It’s really hard when you work to better your neighborhood and then somebody else comes in and gets to take advantage of that and you have to move to another place that has all the problems that you just spent your time trying to change.”
– Mariama White-Hammond

As development winds around Roxbury’s Dudley Square, people who work and live in the community say they’re concerned about fairness — in city jobs, education and affordable housing.

  • Jeff Hernandez pauses for a portrait at the Silver Slipper restaurant in Dudley Square. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    Jeff Hernandez pauses for a portrait at the Silver Slipper restaurant in Dudley Square. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • Dessie Yeferu, right, chats with a friend at Merkato, an Ethiopian shop on Harrison Avenue. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    Dessie Yeferu, right, chats with a friend at Merkato, an Ethiopian shop on Harrison Avenue. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • Two pedestrians walk past the old Ferdinand building, a development project credited to Mayor Menino. The long-abandoned storefront will be the new headquarters for Boston Public Schools. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    Two pedestrians walk past the old Ferdinand building, a development project credited to Mayor Menino. The long-abandoned storefront will be the new headquarters for Boston Public Schools. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • Sunny rings up a customer at his shop, which sells mostly cigarettes and lottery tickets. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    Sunny rings up a customer at his shop, which sells mostly cigarettes and lottery tickets. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • Pedestrians walk past one of several murals along Ruggles Street near Dudley Square. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    Pedestrians walk past one of several murals along Ruggles Street near Dudley Square. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • Mariama White-Hammond, who runs Project Hip Hop in Dudley Square, grew up in Roxbury. She says Boston has long felt like a city of turfs. "I really hope that this next generation will have deep pride for their neighborhood, but they will [also] own this city as a whole," she says. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    Mariama White-Hammond, who runs Project Hip Hop in Dudley Square, grew up in Roxbury. She says Boston has long felt like a city of turfs. "I really hope that this next generation will have deep pride for their neighborhood, but they will [also] own this city as a whole," she says. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • Harvey Brewton sits at Sunny's shop, where he helps mind the store. When he retired 20 years ago he became an alcoholic. He managed to get clean and stay sober when Sunny gave him a job about 14 years ago to supplement his fixed income and keep him busy. He is not optimistic that the shop will survive the gentrification of the area. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    Harvey Brewton sits at Sunny's shop, where he helps mind the store. When he retired 20 years ago he became an alcoholic. He managed to get clean and stay sober when Sunny gave him a job about 14 years ago to supplement his fixed income and keep him busy. He is not optimistic that the shop will survive the gentrification of the area. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • Bing Broderick finishes a cup of coffee outside his shop, the Haley House. The cafe and bakery is a nonprofit that offers employment to ex-offenders. The organization also runs a food pantry and soup kitchen in the South End. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    Bing Broderick finishes a cup of coffee outside his shop, the Haley House. The cafe and bakery is a nonprofit that offers employment to ex-offenders. The organization also runs a food pantry and soup kitchen in the South End. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • Construction on the Ferdinand site looms over the historic Dudley Station. As the neighborhood develops, residents say they're concerned about fairness -- in city jobs, education and affordable housing. "Roxbury is going to change and I think the change has to include opportunities for people who have stayed the course," says Sarah-Ann Shaw, who was born and raised in the neighborhood. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    Construction on the Ferdinand site looms over the historic Dudley Station. As the neighborhood develops, residents say they're concerned about fairness -- in city jobs, education and affordable housing. "Roxbury is going to change and I think the change has to include opportunities for people who have stayed the course," says Sarah-Ann Shaw, who was born and raised in the neighborhood. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • Ngozi Anyika testifies about the Gospel with a megaphone near Dudley Square. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    Ngozi Anyika testifies about the Gospel with a megaphone near Dudley Square. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • The sign for the Silver Slipper restaurant hangs over Washington Street. The restaurant is well known for appearing in the film "Gone Baby Gone." (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    The sign for the Silver Slipper restaurant hangs over Washington Street. The restaurant is well known for appearing in the film "Gone Baby Gone." (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • Torrent Six, a renovated fire station dating back to 1859, is now home to Historic Boston Inc. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    Torrent Six, a renovated fire station dating back to 1859, is now home to Historic Boston Inc. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • The Haley House staff updates the restaurant's specials. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    The Haley House staff updates the restaurant's specials. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • A woman views the selection of wigs at a shop on Washington Street. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    A woman views the selection of wigs at a shop on Washington Street. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • David Price, director of Nuestra Comunidad Community Development Corporation, credits Mayor Menino with revolutionizing Dudley Square. But the development is concentrated. Further down Dudley Street toward Dorchester there’s hardly any construction and, according to the Dudley Street Neighborhood Initiative, the annual per capita income drops to less than $16,000. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    David Price, director of Nuestra Comunidad Community Development Corporation, credits Mayor Menino with revolutionizing Dudley Square. But the development is concentrated. Further down Dudley Street toward Dorchester there’s hardly any construction and, according to the Dudley Street Neighborhood Initiative, the annual per capita income drops to less than $16,000. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • Two girls smile at a friend at Dudley MBTA station. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    Two girls smile at a friend at Dudley MBTA station. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)

Copley Square

“I think the Copley hope for the next mayor is that we’ll have a mayor who’s not dividing us but uniting us … to be both pro-business and pro-working class, to be pro our thriving neighborhoods like Copley Square and pro Mattapan, Dorchester, Roxbury.”
– Louise Burnham Packard

Copley Square is an oasis of open space ringed by a bustling hub of dining, retail, business and historic architecture. Still, people who live and work here are looking for a mayor who will help cut down on panhandling and increase litter clean-up. And all the construction on tap has some worried about changes to the skyline.

  • Pedestrians cross Boylston Street at Dartmouth Street, one block from the Boston Marathon finish line. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    Pedestrians cross Boylston Street at Dartmouth Street, one block from the Boston Marathon finish line. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • A woman feeds the birds on Copley Square. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    A woman feeds the birds on Copley Square. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • Four people dip their feet in the Copley Square fountain. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    Four people dip their feet in the Copley Square fountain. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • Some neighborhood residents are concerned about changes to the skyline and fear that more tall buildings will mean less sun and more wind tunnels, which Copley Square is already infamous for. "That's a quality of life issue," says Howard Kassler, chairman of the Neighborhood Association of the Back Bay. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    Some neighborhood residents are concerned about changes to the skyline and fear that more tall buildings will mean less sun and more wind tunnels, which Copley Square is already infamous for. "That's a quality of life issue," says Howard Kassler, chairman of the Neighborhood Association of the Back Bay. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • Meg Mainzer-Cohen, president of the business-centric Back Bay Association, thinks the city should build more tall buildings along the “high spine,” a stretch from the Fenway to Downtown Crossing. "There's the Orange Line and the Green Line, there is the commuter rail. It's a way to leverage the public transportation systems for the betterment of many, many families or individuals." (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    Meg Mainzer-Cohen, president of the business-centric Back Bay Association, thinks the city should build more tall buildings along the “high spine,” a stretch from the Fenway to Downtown Crossing. "There's the Orange Line and the Green Line, there is the commuter rail. It's a way to leverage the public transportation systems for the betterment of many, many families or individuals." (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • Copley Square is a must-see stop on every tourist itinerary, but since the Boston Marathon bombings, it has also had notoriety. Tour guides now include the Boylston Street finish line, where the bombs went off, in their circuits. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    Copley Square is a must-see stop on every tourist itinerary, but since the Boston Marathon bombings, it has also had notoriety. Tour guides now include the Boylston Street finish line, where the bombs went off, in their circuits. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • Pedestrians pass by a statue of John Singleton Copley, the portraitist and namesake for the square. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    Pedestrians pass by a statue of John Singleton Copley, the portraitist and namesake for the square. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • Children climb across the Copley Square fountain. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    Children climb across the Copley Square fountain. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • A man walks past a map of Boston from 1852 by Henry McIntyre on the floor of the Boston Public Library. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    A man walks past a map of Boston from 1852 by Henry McIntyre on the floor of the Boston Public Library. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • Library patrons read and relax in the courtyard of the Boston Public Library. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    Library patrons read and relax in the courtyard of the Boston Public Library. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • A bronze statue by Frederick MacMonnies called "Bacchante and Infant Faun" appears to dance among the fountains in the Boston Public Library courtyard. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    A bronze statue by Frederick MacMonnies called "Bacchante and Infant Faun" appears to dance among the fountains in the Boston Public Library courtyard. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • A man takes a photograph from a window looking into the Boston Public Library courtyard. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    A man takes a photograph from a window looking into the Boston Public Library courtyard. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • A boy reads a book on the benches in Copley Square. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    A boy reads a book on the benches in Copley Square. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • Vendors sell a variety of goods at the twice-weekly farmers market on Copley Square. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    Vendors sell a variety of goods at the twice-weekly farmers market on Copley Square. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • A man feeds pigeons on Copley Square. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    A man feeds pigeons on Copley Square. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)

Maverick Square

“I don’t think things should change. I love my neighborhood. I don’t want anything to come over and dictate [to] us to change anything. I love East Boston and the way it is.”
– Tayler Fernandez

As change drives forward, in the form of planned waterfront development and a proposed casino, many East Boston residents worry that the neighborhood’s long tradition as a gateway to immigrants will end.

  • A view of Maverick Square in East Boston (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    A view of Maverick Square in East Boston (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • The always-bustling Maverick Square MBTA station (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    The always-bustling Maverick Square MBTA station (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • This statue sits in front of East Boston’s Church of the Most Holy Redeemer. The Catholic church has the best-attended Sunday Mass in Boston. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    This statue sits in front of East Boston’s Church of the Most Holy Redeemer. The Catholic church has the best-attended Sunday Mass in Boston. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • John Hall cuts one of his many handmade sandwiches at Sorrentino’s Deli on Sumner Street. Hall has lived in Maverick Square for 32 years and says all the new housing and the influx of young professionals don’t matter; he’s seen it before and nothing ever changes, he says. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    John Hall cuts one of his many handmade sandwiches at Sorrentino’s Deli on Sumner Street. Hall has lived in Maverick Square for 32 years and says all the new housing and the influx of young professionals don’t matter; he’s seen it before and nothing ever changes, he says. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • Jesus Yepes cuts a piece of leather to repair a shoe in La Amistad Reparacion de Calzado, the only shoe repair shop in Maverick Square. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    Jesus Yepes cuts a piece of leather to repair a shoe in La Amistad Reparacion de Calzado, the only shoe repair shop in Maverick Square. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • Customers weigh bananas at the East Boston Farm Stand on Meridian Street. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    Customers weigh bananas at the East Boston Farm Stand on Meridian Street. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • Edward Brazzu, 22, is one of the many homeless people who stay at night at the Pine Street Inn and return to Maverick Square each day. He says comes here because it’s his home. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    Edward Brazzu, 22, is one of the many homeless people who stay at night at the Pine Street Inn and return to Maverick Square each day. He says comes here because it’s his home. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • Freddy, a homeless man, sleeps in Lo Presti Park on the East Boston waterfront to get away from the police that are cracking down on panhandling in Maverick Square. Freddy has lived in Maverick Square all his life of 55 years. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    Freddy, a homeless man, sleeps in Lo Presti Park on the East Boston waterfront to get away from the police that are cracking down on panhandling in Maverick Square. Freddy has lived in Maverick Square all his life of 55 years. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • Maverick Landing housing development resident David Carmenatti says he takes a personal interest in public safety in his neighborhood by kicking out drug dealers and prostitutes who solicit the area by Lo Presti Park. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    Maverick Landing housing development resident David Carmenatti says he takes a personal interest in public safety in his neighborhood by kicking out drug dealers and prostitutes who solicit the area by Lo Presti Park. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • Skateboarders ride through the Maverick Landing housing development on New Street. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    Skateboarders ride through the Maverick Landing housing development on New Street. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • Joan Conley, (left), a retired state trooper, and Frances Morrill, both of Revere, dance to music playing on the jukebox in Eddie C’s bar in Maverick Square. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    Joan Conley, (left), a retired state trooper, and Frances Morrill, both of Revere, dance to music playing on the jukebox in Eddie C’s bar in Maverick Square. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • A game of Whist at the back table of Eddie C’s (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    A game of Whist at the back table of Eddie C’s (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • Filipe Alvarez shoots billiards in Diamante Billiards Hall on Meridian Street. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    Filipe Alvarez shoots billiards in Diamante Billiards Hall on Meridian Street. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • In Maverick Square’s Action for Boston Community Development office, Amy Lima helps Michael Clark fill out a bank deposit slip. ABCD serves low-income residents in Greater Boston through its network of neighborhood-based organizations. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    In Maverick Square’s Action for Boston Community Development office, Amy Lima helps Michael Clark fill out a bank deposit slip. ABCD serves low-income residents in Greater Boston through its network of neighborhood-based organizations. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • Marlene Del Rosario instructs piano to a new student at the Zumix Community Arts Center in Maverick Square. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    Marlene Del Rosario instructs piano to a new student at the Zumix Community Arts Center in Maverick Square. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • A man stands at the corner of Chelsea and Maverick Streets. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    A man stands at the corner of Chelsea and Maverick Streets. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)

Oak Square

“It’s always been a different neighborhood, a younger neighborhood, eclectic neighborhood. I always make a joke that Harvard Ave. was grunge and liberal before Cambridge and JP knew what that meant, and it still remains that way.”
– State Rep. Michael Moran

These days, Allston/Brighton is known for the throngs of students who live there, and for large new developments planned by businesses and surrounding universities. But there are also generations of families who are trying to hold on to their neighborhood.

  • The oaks of Oak Square. The origninal oak tree in the area which is now Oak Square, was cut down on 1854. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
    The oaks of Oak Square. The origninal oak tree in the area which is now Oak Square, was cut down on 1854. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
  • The central area of Oak Square features an octagon where residents can be found sitting and talking on a summer evening. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
    The central area of Oak Square features an octagon where residents can be found sitting and talking on a summer evening. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
  • The YMCA, which opened in 2001 and now has around 10,000 members, stands on the east side of Oak Square. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
    The YMCA, which opened in 2001 and now has around 10,000 members, stands on the east side of Oak Square. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
  • Swimming instructor Becky Gillig teaches the "pike" swimming class how to kick in the YMCA's pool facilities. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
    Swimming instructor Becky Gillig teaches the "pike" swimming class how to kick in the YMCA's pool facilities. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
  • Wado-Ryu Karate instructor Tyrone Pardue braces for a kick from a student in the YMCA's youth karate program. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
    Wado-Ryu Karate instructor Tyrone Pardue braces for a kick from a student in the YMCA's youth karate program. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
  • The Oak Square fire station, built in 1912, dominates the north side of the square. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
    The Oak Square fire station, built in 1912, dominates the north side of the square. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
  • The Faneuil Branch of the Boston Public Library at Oak Sqare. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
    The Faneuil Branch of the Boston Public Library at Oak Sqare. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
  • Oak Square's public library is known for its art-deco interior. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
    Oak Square's public library is known for its art-deco interior. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
  • Boston College's marching band, parades through Oak Square during the 30th annual Allston-Brighton Parade in September 2013. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
    Boston College's marching band, parades through Oak Square during the 30th annual Allston-Brighton Parade in September 2013. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
  • Ashford Street in Allston. It's quiet during the week but residents say it gets noisy on weekend evenings. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
    Ashford Street in Allston. It's quiet during the week but residents say it gets noisy on weekend evenings. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
  • BU communications student Mike Tom, who lives on Ashford Street says he likes being near campus and enjoys seeing the students in the streets on weekend evenings. "It's what you get for living in this part of Boston," he says. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
    BU communications student Mike Tom, who lives on Ashford Street says he likes being near campus and enjoys seeing the students in the streets on weekend evenings. "It's what you get for living in this part of Boston," he says. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
  • The Boston Landing construction site between the Mass. Pike and Guest Street. New Balance will build its new world headquarters here, on an area that was once a stockyard. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
    The Boston Landing construction site between the Mass. Pike and Guest Street. New Balance will build its new world headquarters here, on an area that was once a stockyard. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
  • Boston Mayor Tom Menino at the ground breaking for the Boston Landing site. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
    Boston Mayor Tom Menino at the ground breaking for the Boston Landing site. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
  • Longtime residents of the area Ned and Paula Anello at the ground breaking of the New Balance project. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
    Longtime residents of the area Ned and Paula Anello at the ground breaking of the New Balance project. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
  • The Conservatory Lab Charter School on Arlington Street in Brighton. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
    The Conservatory Lab Charter School on Arlington Street in Brighton. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
  • Orchestra practice at the Lab Charter School. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
    Orchestra practice at the Lab Charter School. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
  • Head of school Diana Lam watches the orchestra practice at the Lab Charter School. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
    Head of school Diana Lam watches the orchestra practice at the Lab Charter School. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
  • A boat pushes off the jetty in the early morning at Community Rowing's Harry Parker Boathouse on Nonantum Road. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
    A boat pushes off the jetty in the early morning at Community Rowing's Harry Parker Boathouse on Nonantum Road. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
  • Shawn Hakimi plays a "Play Me I'm Yours" street piano in Cunningham Park on Cambridge Street. He'd like to see stricter laws for bicycle lanes in the city. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
    Shawn Hakimi plays a "Play Me I'm Yours" street piano in Cunningham Park on Cambridge Street. He'd like to see stricter laws for bicycle lanes in the city. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
  • A vacant area off Western Avenue in Allston. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)
    A vacant area off Western Avenue in Allston. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)

Downtown Crossing/Chinatown

“The big story here is that this is becoming a residential area. No one in their wildest imagination, 30 years ago, could have thought that it would in fact become what it is today.”
– Emerson College President Lee Pelton

Downtown Crossing is the epicenter of Boston’s social, cultural and commercial history. But it’s seen a series of highs and lows since its heyday. Now, the bustling retail district is becoming more residential, and luxury housing is driving up costs in the neighborhoods that border the district — like Chinatown.

  • A view of the Burnham Building, longtime home of Filene's Basement, at the corner of Summer and Hawley streets. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    A view of the Burnham Building, longtime home of Filene's Basement, at the corner of Summer and Hawley streets. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • Looking down Summer Street toward the Financial District. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    Looking down Summer Street toward the Financial District. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • The lottery agent on Winter Street is always full of hopeful winners. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    The lottery agent on Winter Street is always full of hopeful winners. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • A peanut vendor fills bags on Summer Street in front of the Downtown Crossing MBTA station. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    A peanut vendor fills bags on Summer Street in front of the Downtown Crossing MBTA station. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • Two men sitting and talking on the corner of Washington and Summer Streets. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    Two men sitting and talking on the corner of Washington and Summer Streets. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • A Union Park resident does tai chi at Mary Soo Hoo Park in Chinatown. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    A Union Park resident does tai chi at Mary Soo Hoo Park in Chinatown. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • Two men play a game of xiangqi, also known as Chinese chess, at Mary Soo Hoo Park. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    Two men play a game of xiangqi, also known as Chinese chess, at Mary Soo Hoo Park. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • Two women carrying their young babies and coffee walk across Harrison Avenue. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    Two women carrying their young babies and coffee walk across Harrison Avenue. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • A worker from the Ming Yu Seafood Company hauls a crate of stone crabs into the market. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    A worker from the Ming Yu Seafood Company hauls a crate of stone crabs into the market. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • A delivery man walks down Beach Street. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    A delivery man walks down Beach Street. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • A cook from Vinh Sun BBQ Restaurant slicing a slab of ribs off of a pig carcass. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    A cook from Vinh Sun BBQ Restaurant slicing a slab of ribs off of a pig carcass. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • The paifang in Chinatown at sunrise. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    The paifang in Chinatown at sunrise. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • "Ray The Fish Guy" sells barramundi at a discounted price to Chinatown residents out of his delivery truck in the early morning hours. He knows many can not afford fish at supermarket or fish market prices. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    "Ray The Fish Guy" sells barramundi at a discounted price to Chinatown residents out of his delivery truck in the early morning hours. He knows many can not afford fish at supermarket or fish market prices. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • Beach Street resident Jiao Yu Chen sweeps Mary Soo Hoo Park in the early hours. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    Beach Street resident Jiao Yu Chen sweeps Mary Soo Hoo Park in the early hours. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • A small boy feeds pigeons in Chinatown Park. (Jesse Cosya/WBUR)
    A small boy feeds pigeons in Chinatown Park. (Jesse Cosya/WBUR)

Cleary Square

“Cleary Square is a story of two squares, some parts are doing well, some parts need help. We need help marketing. I think we can have a renaissance like JP had.”
– Boston Mayor Thomas Menino

Thomas Menino is from Hyde Park, but soon the neighborhood (and the city) will have a new mayor. Residents there are looking for the city’s next chief executive to develop Hyde Park’s business district and work on bridging cultural differences.

  • Kbrom Assefa studies in the Hyde Park branch of the Boston Public Library in Cleary Square, the center of Mayor Thomas Menino’s own neighborhood. Menino grew up in Hyde Park, raised his family there and then represented the neighborhood as a city councilor for nine years before becoming mayor. It’s an area that has seen one of the city’s most dramatic demographic shifts during his tenure. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    Kbrom Assefa studies in the Hyde Park branch of the Boston Public Library in Cleary Square, the center of Mayor Thomas Menino’s own neighborhood. Menino grew up in Hyde Park, raised his family there and then represented the neighborhood as a city councilor for nine years before becoming mayor. It’s an area that has seen one of the city’s most dramatic demographic shifts during his tenure. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • The Menino wing of the library -- which serves as an after school hub for students from the William Barton Rogers School down the street -- contrasts with the original, historic building in Cleary Square. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    The Menino wing of the library -- which serves as an after school hub for students from the William Barton Rogers School down the street -- contrasts with the original, historic building in Cleary Square. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • "Folks can move in but not really belong," says Smith Guillaume of Youth and Family Enrichment Services Inc. "It’s almost a play on words, they reside here but don’t live here, so to speak. But the shift I see is a sense of belonging." Pictured, a map of Hyde Park on the floor of the public library. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    "Folks can move in but not really belong," says Smith Guillaume of Youth and Family Enrichment Services Inc. "It’s almost a play on words, they reside here but don’t live here, so to speak. But the shift I see is a sense of belonging." Pictured, a map of Hyde Park on the floor of the public library. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • The Menino wing was added in 2000 and doubled the size of the branch. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    The Menino wing was added in 2000 and doubled the size of the branch. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • Ron’s Ice Cream and 20th Century Bowling has been a fixture in Hyde Park for decades. Here, members of the Readville Bowling League roll the candlepin lanes. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    Ron’s Ice Cream and 20th Century Bowling has been a fixture in Hyde Park for decades. Here, members of the Readville Bowling League roll the candlepin lanes. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • Ron Covitz, owner of Ron's Ice Cream and 20th Century Bowling, says as his business changed from a bowling alley and pool hall in the 1970s to a gourmet ice cream shop with candlepin bowling, there was also a dramatic demographic shift in the neighborhood. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    Ron Covitz, owner of Ron's Ice Cream and 20th Century Bowling, says as his business changed from a bowling alley and pool hall in the 1970s to a gourmet ice cream shop with candlepin bowling, there was also a dramatic demographic shift in the neighborhood. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • An old clock stands in front of the Municipal Building on Logan Square in Hyde Park. According to census figures, Hyde Park was 85 percent white in 1980. In 2010, it was less than 30 percent white. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    An old clock stands in front of the Municipal Building on Logan Square in Hyde Park. According to census figures, Hyde Park was 85 percent white in 1980. In 2010, it was less than 30 percent white. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • Anthony Amaru gets a hair cut ahead of his school portrait by Jorge Guerrero at Sharps Barbershop on Hyde Park Avenue in Cleary Square. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    Anthony Amaru gets a hair cut ahead of his school portrait by Jorge Guerrero at Sharps Barbershop on Hyde Park Avenue in Cleary Square. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • The Everett Square Theatre sign is a replica of the original and was installed to spur people to support a restoration of the Cleary Square theater. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    The Everett Square Theatre sign is a replica of the original and was installed to spur people to support a restoration of the Cleary Square theater. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • An ink press is seen in the classroom of the Menino Arts Center in Cleary Square. The center offers lessons to members and the public, affordable artist work studios, gallery space and runs a mobile program that serves seniors at assisted living centers. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    An ink press is seen in the classroom of the Menino Arts Center in Cleary Square. The center offers lessons to members and the public, affordable artist work studios, gallery space and runs a mobile program that serves seniors at assisted living centers. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • Graham Waiting, a former banker who is now pursuing photography, has studio space in the Menino Arts Center and serves on the board. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    Graham Waiting, a former banker who is now pursuing photography, has studio space in the Menino Arts Center and serves on the board. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • A group of boys ride BMX in Cleary Square. Emily Patrick, executive director of Hyde Park Main Streets, admits that the business district in Cleary is in a lull right now with a few empty storefronts, but she the rapidly growing arts community and the renovation of some historic properties is changing that. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    A group of boys ride BMX in Cleary Square. Emily Patrick, executive director of Hyde Park Main Streets, admits that the business district in Cleary is in a lull right now with a few empty storefronts, but she the rapidly growing arts community and the renovation of some historic properties is changing that. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
  • The Rev. Peter Nolan, pastor of Most Precious Blood Parish in Cleary Square, has been serving in Boston for over 30 years. He says some of those longtime Hyde Park residents have been resistant to accept neighborhood changes so he hopes the next mayor will work on bridging cultural differences. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)
    The Rev. Peter Nolan, pastor of Most Precious Blood Parish in Cleary Square, has been serving in Boston for over 30 years. He says some of those longtime Hyde Park residents have been resistant to accept neighborhood changes so he hopes the next mayor will work on bridging cultural differences. (Dominick Reuter for WBUR)

Mattapan Square

“We don’t want to paint a picture of doom and gloom for Mattapan. When I walk down the street, I see people that are very proud to say they live in Mattapan and that they are from Mattapan.”
– Sharon Callender, Mattapan Community Health Center

Some Mattapan residents see it as the forgotten neighborhood. But despite violent crime and challenges for its large immigrant populations, it’s home to many optimists.

  • Stacey Thomas works 7 days a week at the Mobil Station on Blue Hill Avenue. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    Stacey Thomas works 7 days a week at the Mobil Station on Blue Hill Avenue. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • "Ms. Myrtle" Ho-Sang sitting amongst the many plants in her house. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    "Ms. Myrtle" Ho-Sang sitting amongst the many plants in her house. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • Stacey Thomas serves a customer at the Mobil station in Mattapan Square. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    Stacey Thomas serves a customer at the Mobil station in Mattapan Square. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • Calixte Doisca serves up san order of chicken pates at the Blue House of Coffee on Blue Hill Avenue, which he just opened in April of 2013. Calixte also sells insurance and has been for 25 years in Mattapan. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    Calixte Doisca serves up san order of chicken pates at the Blue House of Coffee on Blue Hill Avenue, which he just opened in April of 2013. Calixte also sells insurance and has been for 25 years in Mattapan. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • Trey Meade (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    Trey Meade (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • Stacey Thomas serves and discusses the day’s events with Robert Bonner at the Mobil station in Mattapan Square. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    Stacey Thomas serves and discusses the day’s events with Robert Bonner at the Mobil station in Mattapan Square. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • Violence interrupters Arthur Kitty and Tony "Big Time" Seymore in front of the Mattapan branch of the Boston Public Library. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    Violence interrupters Arthur Kitty and Tony "Big Time" Seymore in front of the Mattapan branch of the Boston Public Library. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • Tony "Big Time" Seymore’s photo on a billboard over Mattapan Square is part of the $2 million campaign, "Our Mattapan. Many Pasts. One Future" in an attempt to reduce gun violence and support high-risk youth and families. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    Tony "Big Time" Seymore’s photo on a billboard over Mattapan Square is part of the $2 million campaign, "Our Mattapan. Many Pasts. One Future" in an attempt to reduce gun violence and support high-risk youth and families. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • Joe Richard of Easton, MA eats a hot dog at Simco on Blue Hill Avenue on his way home. His parents are originally from Boston and used to come here regularly. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    Joe Richard of Easton, MA eats a hot dog at Simco on Blue Hill Avenue on his way home. His parents are originally from Boston and used to come here regularly. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • Crows chase away group of smaller birds from the top of what was once the very popular Oriental Movie Theater, which closed in 1971. It then became the Capitol Electric Supply Co, until it closed and now is the J City clothing Shop with offices upstairs. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    Crows chase away group of smaller birds from the top of what was once the very popular Oriental Movie Theater, which closed in 1971. It then became the Capitol Electric Supply Co, until it closed and now is the J City clothing Shop with offices upstairs. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • "Nick the Greek" sands down the heel of a shoe at Mike’s Shoe Repair on River St, which has been in business in Mattapan for 27 years. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    "Nick the Greek" sands down the heel of a shoe at Mike’s Shoe Repair on River St, which has been in business in Mattapan for 27 years. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • Jimmy "JJ" Williams, seen here greasing a security grate, has been a fixture of Mattapan Square since 1971. He was homeless and an alcoholic for over 30 years and lived beneath the bridge by River Street. Five years ago he suddenly decided to stop drinking without any assistance and is now Mattapan Square’s handyman, performing odd jobs for various businesses. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    Jimmy "JJ" Williams, seen here greasing a security grate, has been a fixture of Mattapan Square since 1971. He was homeless and an alcoholic for over 30 years and lived beneath the bridge by River Street. Five years ago he suddenly decided to stop drinking without any assistance and is now Mattapan Square’s handyman, performing odd jobs for various businesses. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • A man hurries to board a streetcar at Mattapan Station. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    A man hurries to board a streetcar at Mattapan Station. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • The 19-foot bronze sculpture by former Mattapan resident Fem Cunningham stands at the gateway to Mattapan Square on Blue Hill Avenue. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    The 19-foot bronze sculpture by former Mattapan resident Fem Cunningham stands at the gateway to Mattapan Square on Blue Hill Avenue. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • A worker from the Mattapan Car Wash on Blue Hill Ave makes his way around and SUV. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    A worker from the Mattapan Car Wash on Blue Hill Ave makes his way around and SUV. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • Troy Elder walks his granddaughter Soley Auguste across Babson Street afterschool from the Pope John Paul II School. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    Troy Elder walks his granddaughter Soley Auguste across Babson Street afterschool from the Pope John Paul II School. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • The Mildred Avenue Middle School football team practices afterschool at the George H. Walker Playground on Norfolk Street. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    The Mildred Avenue Middle School football team practices afterschool at the George H. Walker Playground on Norfolk Street. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • Volunteers load food supplies into the Church of the Holy Spirit on River St. as part of the Sant Grandet food program, which distributes food to seniors in the Mattapan area. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    Volunteers load food supplies into the Church of the Holy Spirit on River St. as part of the Sant Grandet food program, which distributes food to seniors in the Mattapan area. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • A man sits on the steps of the Church of the Holy Spirit in the morning waiting for the liquor store across the street to open. (Jesse Costa/ WBUR)
    A man sits on the steps of the Church of the Holy Spirit in the morning waiting for the liquor store across the street to open. (Jesse Costa/ WBUR)
  • A panhandler sits writing in a pad of paper at the light on the bridge on Blue Hill Avenue. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    A panhandler sits writing in a pad of paper at the light on the bridge on Blue Hill Avenue. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • Keyla Callis assembles a few breakfast orders for morning customers at Brothers Delicatessen, which has been serving up food in the Mattapan area for 40 years. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    Keyla Callis assembles a few breakfast orders for morning customers at Brothers Delicatessen, which has been serving up food in the Mattapan area for 40 years. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
  • Parishioners pray during the "Conclusion of the Adoration" ceremony at the St. Angela’s Parish in Mattapan. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)
    Parishioners pray during the "Conclusion of the Adoration" ceremony at the St. Angela’s Parish in Mattapan. (Jesse Costa/WBUR)