Children of the City was able to brighten the Holidays for many unsuspecting families, as approximately 400 children and their parents gathered at our headquarters in Sunset Park for a special Christmas event.
There was food, games, music, and Muppets, but best of all, each child did not leave empty handed. Many of the children had been able to fill out a “wish list” months prior, and others who were invited were also blessed with a wonderful gift.
Moms were present, many of them carrying newborns in their arms as young as 2 weeks old. It is the desperation of poverty that brings parents with infants to brave the inclement weather, knowing that they can receive much needed supplies.
With a profound awareness of the great needs that have been growing in this community, Children of the City was prepared with many of the essentials to give to families. It was not only gifts, but dozens and dozens of boxes of diapers were distributed to struggling families, to make this holiday week just a little less stressful.
Local schools partnered with Children of the City to identify the neediest of families. We were surprised to find out the high number of local school children that are living in shelters and we were able to provide their specific needs as well as build an ongoing relationship to help them get on toward a better future.
Children of the City’s goal is to break the cycles of poverty, and empower families to become self-sustaining. A one day event is not enough, so COC works all year round, building partnerships with those that can help and those that are in need. Families know that they can come and receive help whenever they are in crisis. And it is not just the physical supplies, but we provide advocacy, parent workshops, educational support and so much more.
We are thankful for our partners such as New York Cares, Madison Square Park Moms, Upper Eastside Mommas, St. John Bread of Life, NYSUM, Salon Briannas, and our amazing Board members, who made this day possible through their donations and support. Children of the City has been known to identify those that truly need the help and connect them with resources to improve their lives and communities.
