2009-03-05T00:49:37Z 2009-12-31 37 <p><strong>Profile:</strong> Vanesa was born in the Dominican Republic and as a 15 year old immigrated to the United States. Her plans to become a nurse were waylaid by the arrival of her first child at age 17. Humboldt Park has been her home for 11 years and she appreciates the community and the ease of shopping at nearby stores.</p> <p>Moving to Chicago 28 years ago, Vanessa initially had no family here. Her family has since expanded as her children grew and had children of their own&mdash;Vanesa is the now the matriarch of a large family who often turn to her for support. She has sole custody of one grandson and she lives with and takes care of her brother who is battling cancer.</p> <p>Always a hard worker, Vanesa is currently not working due to difficulties with arthritis, osteoporosis and diabetes. She is trying to get covered for disability compensation but in the meantime needs help providing basic items for her family.</p> image/pjpeg New_Camera_180.JPG 838943 2009-03-05T02:04:56Z 8 2 <p>Despite health and personal struggles, Vanessa is the woman her family turns to her when they need help. Now she turns to Reason to Give to help her provide for her brother and grandchildren.</p> 3 2010-02-15T21:10:00Z video/quicktime RTG09_DelaMotaVanesa_Interview.mov 50536932 2009-03-19T14:34:21Z