Stories

Arthur has nothing but good things to say about staff at Richard F. Salyer House, VOA-Greater New York’s supportive housing program in Upper Manhattan. “The staff don’t look down on you. They treat you like family,” he says. After experiencing homelessness due to a drug and alcohol addiction, Arthur is now clean and extremely thankful for the support and assistance he continues to receive.

Judy served with the US Navy. After being discharged, she lived comfortably with her parents for many years. But when they both passed away, she found herself with nowhere to go. It wasn't until she arrived at VOA-GNY's East 12th Street residence for older adults that she once again found comfort and companionship.

George has lived at Rose House for nearly 30 years. Fiercely independent and proud, he has always kept to himself, never getting too close to neighbors or staff—that is, until he became ill during the pandemic. In his time of need, VOA-GNY staff offered George comfort and assistance, evening bringing him his favorite chicken soup from a local deli.

Linda never imagined she would one day become homeless. She had worked hard to establish her career and lived in a large house with her family. But when her husband's abuse intensified during the pandemic, Linda knew she had to leave.

Cindy has been a client since 2004, receiving services to help cope with her behavioral health challenges. In April 2020, her fiancé passed away just two days after contracting COVID-19. Then, Cindy got sick too. Her "VOA family" was her lifeline.

Sharif, a former sergeant in the Army National Guard, works at one of our veterans residences. When he heard Battle Buddy Bridge®—our peer training program for veterans—was back after the pandemic, he jumped at the opportunity to expand his skills and better serve our veterans.

Kirby Liriano attended VOA-GNY's Bronx Early Learning Center as a shy three-year-old with speech delays and other learning challenges. Now, almost 20 years later, he works as an Assistant Teacher at the BELC, alongside his former teacher who made a lasting impact on him.

In-and-out of foster care their whole childhood, Warren and his younger brother Isaiah both found jobs, housing and stability in the Synergy I program for at-risk youth in Northern New Jersey.

Linda never quite found her footing after being discharged from the Army National Guard. Falling on hard times, she moved into Commonwealth Veterans Residence where she gained the support of staff and a renewed sense of purpose.

Twins Adrianna and Allison were both diagnosed with autism at an early age. At the Staten Island Early Learning Center, the sisters receive all the therapies they need to give them a strong foundation for kindergarten.