We may be ordered to stay at home during this pandemic, but teens in FSW residential programs are unable to go home safely. During their time in our care, the teens have used this challenging time to engage in service projects to stay busy, learn life skills, reduce anxiety and uplift others.
They practiced their culinary skills by baking cookies for the first responders of the White Plains police department. For the teens, some of whom are already familiar with the criminal justice system, doing an act of kindness for the police was a meaningful gesture. The young women of our Evelyn Sachs Steiner Residence for Girls also made banana pudding for the boys at our neighboring home, the Jerome Wagner Youth Residence for Boys.
The youth also learned and honed sewing skills by making masks for themselves and the seniors at our adult residence across town. FSW’s White Plains Guest Home remains open during the pandemic, caring for older neighbors who cannot live independently because of mental challenges. The teens followed patterns to make colorful masks and even added jewels. By making masks for others, they felt a real sense of accomplishment.
The young women and staff also made tissue paper flowers as a Mother’s Day craft. They were given to their mothers and to the seniors at the White Plains Guest Home.
“At our residences for teens, we help them overcome obstacles and traumatic experiences that prevent them from living at home,” stated Polly Kerrigan, President and CEO of FSW. “By serving others during the quarantine, they have thought about other people’s needs. When they help others, they also build self-esteem, heal and grow.”
FSW provides three safe, nurturing homes for teen boys and girls who cannot be safely cared for by their families. During the COVID-19 crisis, these homes remain open, as our staff bravely continue caring for our vulnerable young residents, while taking special health and safety precautions.
Support of Family Services of Westchester allows us to continue serving the community with counseling, education and support during a crisis. To lend your financial support, please make a donation by clicking here.
