"The HOPE Program - The HOPE Program empowers New Yorkers to build sustainable futures through comprehensive training, jobs, advancement and lifelong career support. The HOPE Program is leveraging funding from the Bronx Community Foundation to expand its Sustainable South Bronx (SSBx) program. This grant is covering crucial expenses including the salaries of key staff such as instructors and employment specialists, as well as certification testing and materials for hard skills training for our participants, preparing them for careers in green construction and maintenance. Participants in SSBx learn about environmental justice, gain hands-on skills in carpentry, utilities, building mechanics, and energy auditing, and earn industry certifications that enhance their competitiveness in the job market. With an office in Hunts Point, we are compelled to deepen our impact in the Bronx and uplift communities that have historically faced economic, social, and health disparities. Thanks to the support of the Bronx Community Foundation, The HOPE Program can empower more Bronx residents to build sustainable futures for themselves and their families by equipping them with the skills needed to compete for well-paying, in-demand green jobs.” - Tracey Capers, Executive Director.
"A Fair Shake for Youth helps middle school students develop social and emotional skills through a unique 10-week program with therapy dogs. Students learn dog-handling techniques and discuss topics like animal shelters, second chances, and breed discrimination, which often mirror their own life experiences. By working with the non-judgmental and social dogs, students practice positive reinforcement, build trust-based relationships, and improve communication skills.With support from the Bronx Community Foundation's 2023 Participatory Grantmaking cycle, A Fair Shake for Youth continues to expand its impact in the Bronx, helping students build the skills needed to navigate life’s challenges and find their best selves. "The Bronx holds a special place for us at A Fair Shake for Youth. Recognizing the need, we've been committed to serving the borough for over a decade and witness how our unique social emotional learning program with therapy dogs has a profound impact on the children here. To receive support from an organization whose mission aligns so closely with ours—one that shares our dedication to the Bronx—is both meaningful and motivating. It encourages us to continue to expand our efforts" - Audrey Hendler, Founder and Executive Director of A Fair Shake for Youth.
"Recognizing that harm reduction starts with meeting basic needs, St. Ann’s Corner of Harm Reduction (SACHR) has been serving over 100 fresh, culturally appropriate meals daily since 1992. Thanks to funding from the Bronx Community Foundation’s 2023 Participatory Grantmaking cycle, the Meal Program continues to expand, offering nutritious meals that help individuals focus on their care. ""Food is often the first point of connection at St. Ann’s Corner of Harm Reduction. When someone walks through our doors, they may not be ready to discuss their struggles or meet with a case manager—they may simply need a warm meal and a safe space. The support from the Bronx Community Foundation for our soup kitchen allows us to welcome and nourish even more people. Once they've had a meal and feel a sense of comfort, they may become more open to exploring additional services." - Tim Majoor, Chief Operating Officer
“Asylum seekers in New York are seeking an opportunity to work and succeed in a safe environment for their families. Our work, powered by The Bronx Community Foundation’s support, allows us to set these newest New Yorkers up for success." - Dr. Hadiza Osuji, Founder and Executive Director of The African International Collaborative Center."
“The Mercy Center’s programs help asylum-seeking families prepare to enter New York City’s workforce and stabilize important needs like schooling, health care, and legal assistance. We are grateful to The Bronx Community Foundation for helping our critical work continue." - Paula Sarro, Associate Executive Director at Mercy Center
“New York City has long been a welcoming refuge for asylum seekers from across the globe, and this support from The Bronx Community Founda holistic services that help families adjust to life in their new home. We thank the Bronx Community Foundation for their ongoing support to Bronx residents and immigrant New Yorkers." Murad Awawdeh, Executive Director of the New York Immigration Coalition.
"With support from the Bronx Community Foundation, Sapna NYC has grown our Digital Literacy program to meet an overwhelming demand for accessible, empowering tech education in our community. The grant enabled us to offer more classes and expand our curriculum to include a Level 3 course in Google Suite, helping women who previously had little or no computer experience gain skills they thought were out of reach. These classes don’t just teach computer skills; they build community, confidence, and connections to other Sapna NYC services. For our participants, mastering these skills brings new opportunities and the pride that comes from taking a step forward for themselves and their families." - Diya Basu-Sen দিয়া বসু সেন
