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.”

Shana’s Story

I have been challenged with addiction for 10 years, and have been in and out of outpatient treatment and detox several times – but I would always relapse.

When I arrived at Morning Star, I was at the lowest point in my life. Things were spiraling out of control. My four children had been taken from me and placed in foster care with a family member. And then I learned that I was 5 months pregnant.

I arrived with the worst attitude in the world. I was just so angry all the time. But at Morning Star, I started to reflect and gain clarity. I realized that I was hurt and angry with myself. And that’s when the healing began. Everything had been a fight up to that point. But I had nowhere to run – I had to face my problems.

Morning Star helped save my life. They never gave up on me.

Every interaction with my counselor and every staff member helped prepare me to re-enter the world clean and ready to thrive.

I attended treatment 5 days a week, attended a medical assistant program, and became certified in a workforce development program for nontraditional roles for women. And I learned that I am worth it! From now on, I show up, set up, and remain teachable.

When my baby, Liliana, was born, I can’t express how much the onsite child care at Morning Star II helped in my recovery. It made it possible for me to go to treatment, attend school, and focus on me. The structure kept me accountable for being a parent and prepared e for the real world.

I knew I was finally on a path to a better life when I left Morning Star. The court saw the improvements in me, too, and my children came back home to me. I never thought that would happen. Today, thanks to Morning Star, I have a home and my family lives under one roof.

I still visit the program to let them know of my progress. My goal is to be fully self-supported. I know there will be obstacles ahead of me. But I am prepared to take it one day at a time.

← Back

Family Support Program – Bedford Stuyvesant

SCO partners with families to prevent crises and enhance family well-being. Based on the evidence-informed Family Connections model, our home-based Family Support Program provides families with supportive services, counseling and advocacy, helping them strengthen relationships and develop resources to solve problems.

Who Can Benefit from this Program

Families with children birth to 18 who are in crisis and who would benefit from supportive counseling, advocacy and other services to help stabilize their families and improve overall functioning.

Eligibility Requirements

Families are referred by the New York City Administration for Children Services (ACS) or other community referrals.

Our Family Support Program serves the following Brooklyn communities:

Bedford StuyvesantDowntownNavy Yard
Boerum HillFlatbushPark Slope
Brooklyn HeightsFort GreeneProspect Heights
Carroll Gardens Fulton FerryProspect Park South
Clinton HillGowanusRed Hook
Cobble Hill
GreenpointVinegar Hill
Crown HeightsManhattan TerraceWeeksville
Ditmas ParkMidwoodWilliamsburg

How to Access this Program or Service

Contact the program director at 917-966-4608

Related News

“Stronger Dads, Brighter Futures” Event Provides Resources and Support for Fathers

June 13, 2023

Manuel’s Story

"SCO's Flushing Family Residence gave us a second chance at life."

Read Manuel’s Story

Shana’s Story

"Morning Star helped save my life. They never gave up on me."

Read Shana’s Story

93%

of adults with developmental disabilities living in SCO’s IRAs (group homes) made meaningful connections by participating in community inclusion activities

Support Our Mission

With your gift, you can help strengthen New York families and unlock potential for children and adults with special needs.

Donate Now

Stay in the loop

Subscribe to the SCO Newsletter to hear the latest on SCO’s programs, people, and happenings.