Mayor Walsh, BHA dedicate Franklin Field Community Center in honor of Juanda Drumgold

Mayor Martin J. Walsh today announced the renaming of the Franklin Field Senior Center in honor of Juanda Drumgold at a dedication ceremony with the Boston Housing Authority, the City of Boston's Elderly Commission, elected officials, community residents and the Drumgold family.

Juanda Drumgold was a community pillar and a long-time resident of the Franklin Field public housing development before passing away in October 2016. She worked with the Elderly Commission frequently, appeared on the television show Seniors Count, took a role in Age-Friendly Boston and ensured her building was connected to Elderly events and programming. She volunteered through Grandparents Raising Grandchildren and Boston University Alzheimer's Disease Community Action Council.

"Ms. Drumgold was a true voice and tireless advocate for the residents of Franklin Field and for the greater Dorchester area," said Mayor 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," said 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 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 of this community, and we count it an honor to celebrate her in this fashion."

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.