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.”

Get Involved

Join us in our important work!  As New York’s largest nonprofit social services agency, we partner with individuals, families, corporations, government, donors, and volunteers to make a difference in the lives of 60,000 New Yorkers each year.  There are so many meaningful ways to get involved.  Here are a few:

Give: Learn the many meaningful ways to give to SCO Family of Services and support the 60,000 New Yorkers we serve.

 

Partner: Join the ranks of corporations, businesses and community organizations that partner with SCO to help us achieve life-changing results. You’ll be in great company!

 

Foster Care: It’s all about caring! Open your heart and home to a child in need.  Learn more about becoming a foster parent and how SCO can help you on your journey.

Attend an SCO signature event, or even better – join a committee, and get involved!

 

Tour: There is no better way to learn about the important work we do than by joining us for a tour.

 

Shop: What’s better than finding a great deal on Amazon…finding a great deal while you support SCO Family of Services.  Sign up at AmazonSmile and help make a difference.


Guide: Learn how our SCO Council is helping families and communities throughout New York City and Long Island.

 

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

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Bronx Arena High School

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340

young adults served by SCO are in college this academic year

We shelter

4,900

youth, adults and children