For Jason and Deborah, raising a family has come with extraordinary challenges. They live with chronic health conditions, care for a child with autism, and manage day-to-day responsibilities on a limited income. But at Grand Street Guild—one of Catholic Charities’ long-standing affordable housing communities on the Lower East Side—they’ve found not just a place to stay, but a place to grow.

With over 40 years of service in the neighborhood, Grand Street Guild offers more than just housing—it provides on-site programs and wraparound services, operated in partnership with Catholic Charities, that help residents stay stable, supported, and connected. For Jason and Deborah’s family, that support has made all the difference.

“We’ve both faced serious health issues,” said Deborah, who battles lupus and fibromyalgia. Jason, her husband, lives with diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and a nerve condition that limits his mobility. “Some days, we can barely move. We can’t work. But we’re still able to keep a roof over our heads—and that means everything.”

The Power of Affordable Housing

For this family of five, affordable housing isn’t just about rent—it’s about survival. It’s about having the breathing room to focus on their health, care for their children, and stay rooted in the community that raised them.

If we had to pay market rent, we’d have nothing left. We’d have to choose between medication, food, and housing—and that’s not a choice any parent should have to make.

Living at Grand Street Guild has allowed Jason and Deborah to remain in the neighborhood they love, where they’re surrounded by friends, family, and support. It’s also given their children the stability they need to thrive.

“I grew up here, and now our kids are growing up here too,” Jason shared. “They know their neighbors, they feel safe, and they know this is home.”

The affordability of their apartment has helped them stay afloat through medical emergencies, job loss, and caregiving responsibilities—while never compromising on having a safe, dignified place to live.

Supporting Children with Disabilities

Jason and Deborah’s son, Jason Junior, is on the autism spectrum. Like many children with autism, he experiences challenges with emotional regulation, social interaction, and sensory sensitivity—everyday tasks that can become overwhelming.

“There were times when we didn’t know how to help him,” Jason shared. “He would get overstimulated, frustrated, and shut down. It was hard watching him struggle and feeling like we didn’t have the tools to support him.”

Catholic Charities stepped in to help—first by securing an emotional support dog for Junior. The difference was immediate.

“He’s calmer now. More focused. He sleeps better, and he’s not as anxious or agitated,” Deborah said. “That dog gave him something to love, something that grounds him. It’s brought peace into his world—and into ours.”

But the support didn’t stop there. Junior also benefits from Catholic Charities’ on-site after-school and homework help program. The staff provide a patient, consistent environment that meets him where he is—helping him build confidence and academic skills at his own pace.

“He struggles in traditional classroom settings,” said Jason. “But the staff here know how to work with him. They’re gentle, they’re understanding, and they make learning feel safe. He’s been making real progress.”

For Jason and Deborah, knowing their son has that layer of consistent, compassionate support has been life-changing. Deborah says:

They’ve helped him grow academically and emotionally. And for us, that means the world.

Empowering Young Learners

Junior’s older sisters, Jalen and Jaylin, are shining examples of how stability and support can help young people reach their full potential.

At just 12 and 10 years old, both girls speak with remarkable insight and gratitude for what they have.

“It makes me feel really happy,” said Jalen, “because I know a lot of people who can’t experience what I experience. I’m really proud that I have two parents that support me in everything I do.”
“There are other kids out there that don’t have a home,” added Jaylin, “and I’m happy that I have a roof over my head—and parents that support everything I believe in.”

Jalen is a straight-A student and frequent Student of the Month. She says:

I’m always on top of everything, no matter what. I’m proud of being at the top of all my classes and getting shoutouts from my teachers.

Jaylin is just as dedicated to her education, always curious and eager to learn.

“She loves school and wants to help people,” said Deborah. “She talks about becoming a nurse all the time.”

Both girls credit the after-school homework help program offered by Catholic Charities as a major part of their success—especially when their parents are unwell and can’t assist.

“When I get stuck,” Jalen said, “I know I have someone I can turn to. That makes all the difference.”

Jason and Deborah couldn’t be prouder.

“We might not have a lot, but our girls have everything they need to dream,” said Jason. “They’re smart, compassionate, and they care about helping others.”

“We’ve raised them to value kindness,” added Deborah. “They’re proof that when you give kids a safe home and the right support, they’ll shine.”

Beyond the classroom, Jalen and Jaylin treasure time at home—watching movies together, playing Uno, cooking meals, and simply being with their family. Jalen says:

I like being home. It’s where I feel the most safe.

And they’re already looking ahead. Jalen dreams of becoming a pediatrician. Jaylin hopes to become a nurse.

“Some big dreams I have for myself,” Jalen said, “are to keep myself stable and support my family—because they’ve done so much for me.” Jaylin says:

I want to succeed in life and have money not just for myself but to give to my parents—because they’ve helped me a lot.

Feeding Families with Dignity

With both parents unable to work due to medical conditions, food access is another essential need met by Catholic Charities. The family relies heavily on the nutrition distribution program offered at Grand Street Guild—a lifeline that ensures they have regular access to fresh fruits, vegetables, and other staples.

“We use it every week,” said Deborah. “Every time our building is scheduled, we put in our order. It’s not just food—it’s high-quality, healthy food, which is especially important for our kids.”

When Jason or Deborah are too ill to pick up the food themselves, Catholic Charities staff deliver it right to their door—and sometimes even help carry it in.

“It’s a simple text, and someone is at our door minutes later with bags of groceries,” Deborah said.

There’s no judgment, no hesitation—just kindness. That kind of compassion has kept us going on some of our hardest days.

Their son Junior, who prefers fresh fruit over sweets, always looks forward to getting his favorite apples and oranges. “It makes him feel cared for—and that matters more than people realize,” said Jason.

Whether it’s delivering food multiple times a week or ensuring the family has enough to get through tough months, Catholic Charities has made sure they never feel forgotten.

“It’s not just one-time help. If we need it on Tuesday and again on Friday—they show up,” Deborah added. “They show up every single time.”

A Place to Grow—Together

The family’s story is a reflection of Catholic Charities’ mission in action: to help New Yorkers in need through integrated, human-centered services that promote dignity, stability, and hope.

“They’ve helped us through anything you can think of—housing, health, disabilities, food, our kids’ education,” said Jason. “They didn’t just give us resources—they gave us the ability to breathe again.”

From affordable housing to disability services, after-school education to emergency food relief, Catholic Charities has stood by this family through their hardest moments and continues to walk with them toward a brighter future.

“Thank you for helping people like us,” said Deborah. “You don’t know the impact you’ve had. You’ve helped us survive—and now, you’re helping our children thrive.”

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