There are more than 15,000 families sleeping in New York City homeless shelters tonight – mostly single mothers with children, often escaping domestic violence. I was shocked to learn that the biggest reason for homelessness is lack of affordable housing. Homeless rates continue to go up and have nearly tripled since January of 2000. If this continues, it will perpetuate an ineffective cycle. I believe that if we help fund programs that provide tools to help the afflicted gain independence, we can change the cycle of homelessness and impact our communities.
Growing up in New York, there has always been an urge in me to help, but how? What could I do to make a lasting impact beyond just buying food or donating money?
There must be a better solution…
My curiosity and research led me to the First Step Job Training Program, which has been around since 1991. First Step offers six 14-week classes per year, serving more than 200 women. There, they learn computer skills, literacy, communications and interpersonal skills, and are provided with internships and job assistance. The program takes a holistic approach centered around activities which provide emotional and self-esteem support. It was inspiring to read about all of the women that have changed their situations after graduating from the program. First Step has given them the skills they needed to get their lives back on track and out of the shelters. Most importantly it gives the students hope!
I am working to raise $15,000 to support the training and empowerment of the homeless and low-income women through the First Step program. We often underestimate the power that we have to affect others. This is simple: your donation will change the lives of these women and their families.
Please consider donating and share this page with your friends. It could make all the difference to a family in need.
The focus is this: “Give a man a fish you feed him for a day, teach a man to fish, you feed him for a lifetime.”
Let’s end the cycle with this first step.
Thank you, Claribel Henriquez
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