Imagine living in quarantine, but being unable to follow updates on the COVID-19 pandemic or communicate your needs to those who can help you. Already isolated, you would feel even more alone.
This has been the case for many Spanish-speaking families in WNY, such as the Flores* family. A few days ago, the Flores family noticed that they were running low on food, but were unable to leave their home. Jessica, the Oishei Healthy Kids Health Homes Supervisor at C&FS, is fluent in Spanish. When checking in with the Flores family, they told her about their food shortage. Jessica was able to bring them vegetables that were donated by Radigan’s Irish Pub and inform them of food giveaways being held in their neighborhood.
Over the past several weeks, Jessica has been a lifesaver for Spanish-speaking families in the area. “I have answered programmatic questions with the help of their care managers, as well as questions related to the current pandemic,” said Jessica. “The families I have been able to assist are always so relieved to find someone who can translate for them. They have all expressed their gratitude for all of the workers checking in and continually providing services despite the pause order in New York.”
*Name changed to respect confidentiality.