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.”

← Back

Day Habilitation

Located in Ronkonkoma, our Day Habilitation program offers adults with developmental disabilities a place where they can socialize, join clubs, volunteer and participate in community activities. They discover areas of interest and develop skills that may lead to a vocational path. Individuals who may not be able to function in a group setting participate in our Day Hab Without Walls program – where they utilize community inclusion activities on a one-to-one basis.

Related News

SCO Family of Services Celebrates Harry Potter, Hogwarts, and Habilitation at Program for Adults with Developmental Disabilities

August 23, 2019

Success Stories

East Brooklyn Community High School Students Reflect on Graduation Day

"They're your backbone, they help you and support you no matter what you do in life." 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

We help

2,000

children get ready for kindergarten

368

participants in our Young Adult Workforce Program at Rikers Island completed our program to become licensed drivers to improve their employability