Gladys Hawkins
President
My name is Gladys Hawkins, founder of the Rochester Advocates for Children.
This was a vision to start this group. I had raised my great-grandson, Kristopher, from two years old and just retired. Being a senior with health issues, it was not easy. We had some difficult times because I was on a fixed income. I would get help from food pantries; getting clothes for him was even a challenge. My sister would help with his school clothes. I was only able to receive $23 in food stamps.
Kristopher is still with me, attending college to get his bachelor’s degree. God has helped us through. Rochester Advocates for Children has helped me with food and school supplies. The support from the meetings are a blessing. The ladies have asked me not to stop the group.
I plan to continue helping others.
Ida Morris
Board Member
My name is Ida Morris. I raised my grandson Sean.
I got Sean from CPS when he was 2 years old. I received WIC it helped with the groceries. I am on a fixed income, and it caused things to be difficult. Sean graduated from high school. He moved in with a friend’s stepmother. He is working now and has his own place.
Sean comes by to check on me.
Rochester Advocates for Children has been a help for me and Sean, providing
food, Easter gifts, school supplies, Thanksgiving, Christmas gifts, and food.
The group has been a big help and the group support is good.
I hope it will continue.