The Antoine-Calero Family's Story "Home is where we’re together. We found that at the Y."MCBURNEY YMCATEEN PROGRAMS & NEW AMERICANS INITIATIVEWe came to New York from Venezuela to escape political persecution and rebuild our lives. We crossed seven countries and a jungle to get here. When we arrived, we had no network, limited English, and needed immediate support for our family of five.The Y gave us tools to move forward. My husband and I enrolled in free ESOL classes, helping us navigate daily life and job opportunities. Our kids joined teen programs, sports, and summer camp—safe, structured environments where they could grow socially and academically.The Y has provided real resources: affordable programs, language access, cultural navigation, and a space where our children are engaged, not isolated. Even small things—holiday events, consistent staff, connections to other parents—have helped us feel stable during uncertain times.We're not just attending programs—we’re building a future. The Y didn’t just welcome us. It equipped us.MORE FROM THE ANTOINE-CALEROS