Ann Maxwell

Out of homelessness and into hope

Bound and determined, Ann Maxwell is committed to solving family homelessness. As the founder of Brookview House in Boston, Mass., Maxwell, who is a lifelong activist, introduced a novel idea: safe apartment-style living with on-site support services and specialized childcare to get mothers and their children out of the revolving door of homelessness.

Established in 1990, the Brookview House mission is to help homeless and at-risk families learn the skills necessary to break the cycle of homelessness and poverty. It provides a safe community setting with customized services to give homeless moms and kids the help and skills they need to succeed. Almost all mothers who complete the program continue to maintain a stable home and their kids stay in school and graduate.

By helping families to thrive, Brookview House helps to stabilize the community. Brookview House serves 370 moms and children annually. More than 90 percent of the mothers who complete the program maintain long-term housing, and 87 percent of youth program participants graduate from high school.

What started with six families has now gone on to become a successful nationwide model impacting thousands of women in need. Brookview House is a leader in its sector and convenes annual conferences, advocates for policy changes and fights to ensure mothers and children succeed and thrive.

Maxwell is unyielding in her mission to propel two generations forward, “We proudly work beside moms and kids as partners in their plans to confront obstacles and transform their lives. We listen intently to their hopes & dreams and guide them toward success”

Maxwell served as Board Chair for 10 years and continues to volunteer. She is always willing to roll up her sleeves and climb a roof to check for leaks or throw some high heels and meet with policymakers and advocate for homeless moms.