The Mother Cabrini Health Foundation has awarded a $139,209 grant to FCA, not-for-profit agency helping more than 30,000 Long Islanders each year, to support the organization’s new Newcomers Resource Center. This collection of programs within the center will guide newcomers and those immigrants already residing in Nassau County on their journey to successful lives here in our communities.
Msgr. Gregory Mustaciuolo, Chief Executive Officer of the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation, commented, “Mother Cabrini spent her life devoted to those who faced the greatest struggles, and the Foundation named in her honor is proudly carrying on her legacy. From supporting pediatric cardiac care units in children’s hospitals to expanding mental health services to enhancing immigrants’ access to services, our inaugural grants are already making a difference in communities across New York State.”
In response to the growing need for services for the immigrant and refugee population, FCA is proud to announce the launch of these much needed empowerment services including case management and referral services, supportive counseling, school advocacy, legal guidance, vocational/educational training (including ESL) and short-term child care.
The Newcomers Resource Center will provide struggling young immigrants with greater access to the necessary services needed to begin and build their lives for not only themselves but also their families in their new home on Long Island. FCA anticipates serving 100 families annually across the collection of newcomer services.
The Newcomers Resource Center’s bilingual program staff are prepared to meet the needs of Spanish-speaking parents and children. FCA’s Lynn Vanderhall Nursery Co-op childcare program will also be available to participants to provide additional family support as part of this initiative. As parents attend classes and receive other WISE services, their children can thrive at the Nursery Co-op and enjoy an educational, safe, and nurturing environment. The Co-op fulfills a significant need as most of the newcomer families are young parents without the support of family nearby to help care for their children.FCA is deeply aware of the needs of these individuals and families. They come to FCA from struggling and, often dangerous, regions in Central America and around the world seeking safety and are determined to offer their children a better life.
Dr. Jeffrey Reynolds, FCA President and CEO, commented, “We are grateful for the support of the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation. We look forward to seeing life changing opportunities present themselves for these families within the Newcomers Resource Center with the support of this great foundation.”
FCA looks forward to supporting and empowering this population through the Newcomers Resource Center starting immediately in Hempstead and further exemplifying the organization’s mission of making Long Island an even better place for all to live.
