ASC's Healthy Families Program

Language barriers coupled with a lack of knowledge about available supportive resources are among the many challenges new immigrants frequently encounter in the United States.

"I try to be their voice," said ASC Housing Assistant Carmen Hernandez.

Carmen heads ASC's Healthy Families Program -- a new initiative funded by NYC Department of Youth and Community Development targeting recent immigrants living in Manhattan's Neighborhood Development Area (NDA) 9, West Harlem, who could use a helping hand.

"Immigrants are struggling with language barriers and they're struggling to access different services that they don't know they're entitled to."

Using a case-management approach to each client, Carmen first assesses if there are any legal immigration service needs, such as adjustment of immigration status or work authorization, and refers as needed to ASC's legal team. Once any legal needs are addressed, Carmen provides clients with information, referrals and assistance in applying for entitlement programs, education, healthcare, housing and transportation.

Carmen finds empowering newcomers rewarding and fun -- sometimes it's just a matter of motivating clients. "Some clients just need a little nudge. What we try to do is open the doors so that they can be more self-sufficient. I try never to hinder anyone's growth."

Contact Carmen at 212.222.3882 ext 2133 to learn more about ASC's Healthy Families program. 

- Ehimwenma Osagie