How the YMCA Helped Karlene and Her Family

My name is Karlene Antoine, a single mother of four adopted children, three with special needs. Almost three years ago, we moved to Sussex County for a better environment where my children could thrive. Like many parents, I strived to make informed choices as we adjusted to a new community and schools.

Give $50 to help a family like Karlene's access programs.

When Kaitlyn Ghiassi and her husband moved to New Jersey so he could begin an unpaid medical rotation, their young family faced financial strain and uncertainty. Their son Danial, who was 2-years-old, was struggling with some speech delays and needed opportunities to socialize, explore, and grow. Kaitlyn hoped to give him normal childhood experiences during this transition and turned to the YMCA.

With support from the Y’s Financial Assistance Program, Danial enrolled in child care at the West Essex YMCA’s Peanut Shell Early Childhood Learning Center and began to thrive. His social, emotional, and intellectual skills progressed rapidly, and he found a place where he could develop confidence, curiosity, and connection.

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My husband Brian passed away in a tragic car accident on Aug. 16, 2020. Brian was the most involved dad there could ever be. Because of our work hours, he was always the one that dropped the girls off at school and picked them up every day. When Brian passed away so suddenly, besides the grief, I was completely lost as far as caring for the girls.

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Marlene Waldock, YMCA Board Member, shares why she gives to the YMCA

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