Caregivers Advancement Fund

NEWSLETTER | JUNE 2023

I hope this update finds you in good health and high spirits. In April, the Caregivers Advancement Fund (CAF) celebrated its second anniversary, and I am proud to say that we continue to exceed our fundraising targets, paving the way for substantial growth and impact going forward. To date, the CAF has raised an impressive $32,000 and distributed about 40% of that amount, including some funds that have been reinvested through micro-lending. In the coming year, we are evaluating new and exciting partnership opportunities with the goal of expanding programs and outreach. Our success reflects the unwavering support and dedication of our generous donors and the CAF's commitment to improving the lives of caregivers. I hope you can take some time to read the inspiring story of caregiver Marie A., just one of many that reflects the impact we are having in our community.

MARIE'S STORY

Marie A. is a certified home health aide who has been a part of our Right at Home team for the past seven years. Marie's dedication and skills as a caregiver have made her one of our most valued employees.

In December 2022, tragedy struck Marie's life when her rented home in the Springfield Gardens section of Queens caught fire and burned down. It was a devastating incident that resulted in the loss of everything her family owned. Clothes, furniture, valuables, and cherished household items were all destroyed in the flames. Thankfully, Marie and her loved ones escaped unharmed.

Despite this unimaginable setback, Marie displayed remarkable resilience. She immediately set out to rebuild their lives, putting her plans to purchase a new home on hold to address the most urgent needs. Her teenage son required clothes, books, and a backpack to return to school, and they relied on the kindness of family and friends for temporary shelter while they strategized their next move.

A day after the fire, Marie reached out to our staffing coordinator Roshanna and shared her heartbreaking situation. Roshanna promptly informed me, and I wasted no time in reaching out to Marie to offer support. Though she hesitated to ask for help, I assured her that we had established the Caregivers Advancement Fund (CAF) specifically for such circumstances, urging her not to worry. Recognizing Marie's commitment to her work, I asked if she needed time off, but she insisted on continuing to serve her patient, an elderly man who needs round-the-clock care.

Thanks to the generosity of donors like you, our committee was able to approve a $2500 grant for Marie. This grant played a crucial role in helping her replace some of the items that were lost in the fire. With the support she received, Marie and her family slowly began to rebuild their lives.

Just a few months later, Marie accomplished a remarkable milestone - she closed on a new home in the suburbs of Long Island. Marie's unwavering commitment persisted through challenging times, as she diligently fulfilled her responsibilities without skipping a single work shift. She also went above and beyond in providing care to the same patient, exemplifying the immeasurable value she brings to our organization.

Marie's story is a testament to the resilience and strength of the human spirit. It also highlights the transformative impact that compassionate support can have on someone's life during their darkest moments. We are immensely proud of Marie and grateful for the opportunity to be part of her journey.

Today, I humbly ask for your support to ensure that we can continue to aid caregivers like Marie in their times of need. Your generous tax-deductible donation to the Caregivers Advancement Fund will enable us to offer financial aid, resources, and a helping hand to those who face unexpected crises, ensuring they can focus on rebuilding their lives without additional burdens. Your contribution, no matter the size, will make a meaningful difference in the lives of caregivers like Marie and their families.

To donate by mail, make check payable to "CFOS – Caregivers Advancement Fund” and mail to: CFOS, 30 Scott’s Corners Drive, Suite 203, Montgomery, NY 12549.

To donate online, please go to:

https://cfosny.org/our-funds/project-funds/caregivers-advancement-fund/

About

The CAF is a nonprofit component Fund of the Community Foundation of Orange and Sullivan, a 501(c)(3) corporation. The CAF distributes grants and interest-free microloans to caregivers and their families in the New York City area, covering emergent needs such as housing, transportation, childcare, utilities, and legal expenses. The Fund also supports continuing education, including certificate-based and advanced courses to help increase the pool of skilled home care workers in our communities. Furthermore, the CAF grants higher education scholarships for children of caregivers seeking careers in healthcare, public service, social work, criminal justice, and related fields.