El Modena Family Resource Center (EMFRC)

Griselda Medel, her husband, and two children, Linda 19 and Kyle 15 have been involved at our El Modena Family Resource Center (EMFRC) for 8 years now. Griselda initially arrived at EMFRC seeking services for her son who is enrolled in our Karate Program. She then became a Community Engagement Advisory Committee (CEAC) member and has actively participated in our events here at the center.Griselda’s family has been tremendously affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. She lost her employment, and her husband’s hours were reduced and had to take a pay cut. She felt overwhelmed because she didn’t know how they were going to keep things afloat. In addition, her son was feeling anxious and overwhelmed with the stay at home order.

Griselda is thankful that El Modena continued to provide services. She is not insured but is able to see a doctor through the free mobile clinic, she gets a food box weekly that feeds her family, and also utilizes Clementine, the Mobile Food Trolley.

“Having the clinic come to the center, especially during these times, was reassuring. The services and support that EMFRC offers means a lot to me and my family. It’s moral support and emotional relief for us and the community. In addition, there were creative ways to keep services going like the Karate Program’s virtual classes. These helped the youth stay engaged and connected. Also, CEAC members were able to meet through ZOOM so we can continue to help our community. The community is aware of the support that the center provides, it is crucial in these times.”

www.capoc.org