TRIBUTES

Linda Tente

In the early 90's, I reached out to Senator Ted Kennedy to help my daughter who lived in Fall River, Massachusetts.  He never heard of me, I had no political connection, I lived in Rhode Island -  I was just a voice from out of nowhere. He listened quietly as I explained my plight.

As a single mother I struggled working two jobs raising my daughter to keep her out of the projects, to afford her the best education, and to give her a better start in life.  A tragic auto accident at the age of 17 left her disabled.  Advancing forward six years, I explained to him how my daughter had successfully set out on her own to Fall River.  A slum landlord tried to assault her, and because she reported him to the police she was put in a position to leave her rented home. There was no affordable housing available but for the projects.  I implored Senator Kennedy to help. 

Three weeks later, my daughter was granted a Section 8 certificate and she was able to move into a safe and decent neighborhood.  I will be forever grateful to the man that I feel saved my daughter from harms way and made it possible for my daughter to live freely, safely, and pursue her dreams.  He is my champion too.  God Bless.