West Side Campaign Against Hunger

Haydeth and Erick
In 2007, Haydeth, a single mom of three living in
East Harlem, referred her 14-year-old son Erick to a
WSCAH counselor because he was failing in school and
unresponsive to direction and discipline.
Due to her limited knowledge of English, Haydeth had
trouble understanding Erick’s homework and couldn’t
assist him. José, a WSCAH counselor, tutored Erick
three times a week for a month. Having observed Erick’s
consistent attendance and dedication, José then enrolled
him in an evening tutoring program. As a result, Erick’s
grades improved significantly, and he was accepted into a
competitive high school last fall.
In addition, Haydeth, who has been a regular WSCAH
volunteer, participated in WSCAH’s ESL class in spring
2007. She graduated to an intensive advanced class at the
College of Mount St. Vincent’s Institute for Immigrant
Concerns. With her greatly improved English proficiency,
Haydeth translates for Spanish-speaking customers while
volunteering in the pantry or at reception. She is also
participating more in Erick’s and her other children’s
schoolwork. José has helped to enroll the children in
summer camp and Head Start programs.
Mr. and Mrs. B
Spotlight
After arriving from the Caribbean, Mr. and Mrs. B were
living in a homeless shelter and receiving the minimal
allotment in public assistance and food stamps. Both were
highly motivated to advance their education and to return
to work.
Mrs. B, who suffers from a chronic ailment, was referred
by WSCAH counselors to a nearby neighborhood clinic
and a women’s support group to gain access to quality
medical services. We also referred her for free career
training and job placement. As a result, Mrs. B graduated
Volunteer Haydeth
Erick, son of Haydeth
from Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training, where
she was hailed as one of the most dedicated students.
Currently working as a Home Health Aide in a local
nursing home, Mrs. B plans to upgrade her job upon
passing the state CNA exam.
Mr. B, who is taking computer training at a Manhattan
institute, hopes to advance to higher level courses. Since
working with WSCAH, Mr. and Mrs. B have left the
shelter for a public housing apartment in Manhattan.
Social Services Counseling