Boston, June 6, 2017— Today, the Franklin Field senior center is being renamed in honor of Juanda Drumgold, a community pillar; tireless advocate; and a long-time resident of the Franklin Field public housing development; The Juanda Drumgold Senior Center will be a place to celebrate life and to unify senior residents. Mayor Martin J Walsh along with Elderly Commission, elected officials, community stakeholders, and the Drumgold family will honor her this day during this timely dedication.
Ms. Drumgold worked with the Elderly Commission frequently, appearing on the television show Seniors Count, taking a role in Age-Friendly Boston and ensuring her building was connected to Elderly events and programing. She volunteered through Grandparents Raising Grandchildren and Boston University Alzheimer's Disease Community Action Council. She was an extremely active member of her community for her 82 years and BHA is honoring her dedication by naming the community center after her.
“Mrs. Drumgold was an anchor, a true voice for the residents of Franklin Field and for the greater Dorchester area,’ said Mayor Martin J. Walsh, “Her advocacy and commitment to children, families and seniors will be treasured and missed and this dedication speaks to her life and her voice.”
"Ms. Drumgold was a champion for her community. She inspired me and so many others to be fierce advocates especially for those most vulnerable. Her heart and spirit still live on in Franklin Field and District 4, and I am extremely happy that her legacy will be carried on in this building and in those who continue her work to make this neighborhood one of the best in the City of Boston,” stated City Councilor Andrea Campbell.
Franklin Field residents recently honored Mrs. Drumgold for her work with Rosie’s place last summer. Residents and tenant task force members knitted a quilt in her honor that was dedicated to the center. The quilt, which hangs on the wall of the center, is yet another example of how much she was appreciated and how her love for this community was demonstrated. “Mrs. Drumgold was a true friend; a kind soul who dedicated her life to this development and to the residents who call Franklin Field home, “said Bill McGonagle, BHA Administrator. “ She was a pillar for this community and we count it an honor to celebrate her in this fashion.” Ms. Drumgold passed away in October 2016.
The Franklin Field Developments and Senior center was built in Built in 1954, Franklin Field offers 386 units ranging from one to five bedroom units. Of those, 40 are two-bedroom townhouse units and 148 are private entrance units with small yards. Franklin Field is one of the few developments built with both state and federal funds. Benches are placed in grassy areas throughout the development. For the family and residents of Franklin Field, this dedication and celebration further cements their advocate, their friend, and their voice for unity; Mrs. Juanda Drumgold.
About the Boston Elderly Commission
The Commission on Affairs of the Elderly is dedicated to improving the lives of Boston’s older adults by connecting them with resources and information. We're focused on setting the City’s direction for successful aging in Boston. Our services include assistance in applying for government benefits and community-based services, discount programs, housing advice, transportation options, advocacy, volunteer programs, and information and referral
About the Boston Housing Authority
The Boston Housing Authority (BHA) is a public agency that provides subsidized housing to low and moderate income individuals and families. In addition to conventional public housing communities throughout Boston, BHA offers rental assistance programs. BHA receives federal and state funding in order to provide housing programs to individuals and families. BHA’s mission is to provide stable, quality affordable housing for low and moderate income persons; to deliver these services with integrity and mutual accountability; and to create living environments which serve as catalysts for the transformation from dependency to economic self-sufficiency.
