Three cheers for James Dutra, a local eighth grade student who recently completed a community service project at Housing Nantucket. 

“I chose Housing Nantucket because affordable housing is a huge issue on the island,” said James. “Most of the houses are empty in the winter. It’s sad to see this when so many year-round residents have trouble finding affordable housing. I learned that without assistance from an organization like Housing Nantucket, many people cannot find housing at all.” 

James performed his community service from March through May of this year. He did office work and landscaping tasks, lifting some weight off the shoulders of Housing Nantucket’s lean staff.

“People can get the wrong idea about the people who live in affordable housing,” said James. “Those stereotypes are not true. For example, at one of the rental properties, trash blew over from the construction site next door. I picked up trash around the property, creating a better perception for the neighbors.”

“I feel happy that I have helped the community and that I accomplished something,” said James. “Housing Nantucket has provided housing help to a few of my teachers. If those teachers didn’t have a place to live, I wouldn’t be able to learn from them.” 

Way to go, James!