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.”

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Independence Inns

Located in Brooklyn and Queens, Independence Inns provide shelter and support for young people who are experiencing homelessness or have run away. Our staff helps residents finish school and acquire skills that will prepare them to be self-sufficient. Several of our Independence Inns serve young woman and their children.

Who Can Benefit from this Program

Young men and women who are runaway or homeless

Age Criteria or Other Eligibility Requirements

Young men and women who have already reached the age of 16, but are not yet 21 years old

How to Access this Program or Service

You can access this service by visiting a Drop-In Center and/or youth crisis shelter in New York City (within the DYCD continuum). Or contact DYCD Youth Connect at 800-246-4646 or 646-343-6800

This program is associated with...

A Vibrant Brownsville

Brownsville, Brooklyn is a vibrant, evolving, and unique neighborhood; and SCO is proud of our partnership with the community for over three decades.  Read More

Success Stories

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

H. Craig Treiber

"The diversity and impact of the services provided make me proud to support the organization.” Learn More

Last year,

288

children were reunified with their parents who worked hard preparing for their return home

93%

of graduates at SCO's high school for over-age, under-credited students received a NYS Regent's diploma.