Manuel’s Story

Manuel is a man with a plan. He loves to cook and aspires to be a chef at a 5-star restaurant one day. Until then, he hones his skills at home preparing his children’s favorite meals each week. A hard-working, single father of three teenagers, ‘family first’ is his mantra and guiding force through good times and bad.

When a series of unfortunate events caused Manuel to lose his job, fall behind in rent, and eventually lose his apartment, he worried about his kids, he worried for himself; he needed to find a way to keep his family together.

Manuel and his children moved into SCO’s Flushing Family Residence in Brooklyn to help him get back on his feet. Manuel recalls, “They gave us a second chance at life. SCO provided me with a roof over my head, access to food pantries, and even provided us with fun and recreation that lifted our spirits.”

While at the shelter, the family received counseling, housing services, and family support services to ease the transition. Manuel laid out a clear path for his family. His goal was to “find us a home, build a foundation, and get the kids in school.” He wasted no time in setting that plan in action. Manuel found steady employment working at a men’s shelter, which he recalls “opened my eyes and pushed me to want to be better and do better for my family.” Staff helped Manuel find an apartment suitable for his large family and their cat Patrick, who had been living with a friend. And all three children settled into their new schools and new life.

“SCO is heaven sent,” exclaimed Manuel. “I am able to do more for my family now and live a productive life.”

Directions

Main Office

1 Alexander Place Glen Cove, NY 11542
516.671.1253

Lawrence Street Office

154 Lawrence Street Brooklyn, NY 11201
718.797.3068

Other Locations

Brentwood Office

164 3rd Avenue & 8th Street Brentwood, NY 11717
631.273.2773

Center for Family Life

443 39th Street Brooklyn, NY 11232
718.438.9500

Family Dynamics

1360 Fulton Street Brooklyn, NY 11216
917.966.4630

Nevins Street Office

2-4 Nevins Street Brooklyn, NY 11217
718.935.9466

Genovese Family Life Center

89-30 161st Street Jamaica, NY 11432
718.526.7533

Madonna Heights

151 Burrs Lane Dix Hills, NY 11746
631.643.8800

Ottilie Campus

85-70 148th Street Briarwood, NY 11435
718.658.4101

Robert J. McMahon Children’s Center/Tyree Learning Center

101 Downing Avenue Sea Cliff, NY 11579
516.671.1111

Westbrook Preparatory School

231 St. Brigids Lane Westbury, NY 11590
516.338.5280

Tatiania

Bronx Arena High School

"When somebody comes to you and they just really want to learn it's like you know what? I know it. I'm going to teach you." Learn More

Manuel’s Story

Homeless Services & Family Support

“SCO is heaven sent. I am able to do more for my family now and live a productive life.” - Manuel Learn More

4 out of 5

runaway or homeless youth leaving our transitional living programs are engaged in educational pursuits or gainful employment

96%

of 12th graders in SCO's Family Foster Care program graduated high school, with 65% enrolled in post-secondary education