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Youth Services

The Salvation Army prioritizes investing in the next generation by offering a diverse range of free programs and services for children in New York.

Youth Services Information

Youth Programming

Our youth services are vital to helping and empowering young people. These include music and creative arts instruction, after-school enrichment programs, summer day and sleepaway camps, and, in some cases, daycare. We provide a nurturing learning environment while giving parents peace of mind, knowing their children are safe. These programs offer educational support, leadership development, character building, and nutritious meals and snacks to promote healthy growth and learning. Additionally, they provide mentorship and life skills training to help youth with social-emotional learning. We are dedicated to preparing our youth for a productive future through these initiatives.

Program Schedule

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Applications available in April for a free week at sleep away camp, located in Bloomingdale, New Jersey. Visit The Salvation Army Star Lake Camp to learn more.

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Afterschool

Our GAINS program serves school-aged students Monday through Friday from 2:30pm - 6pm during the school year and provides full-day programming over the summer.

The program provides academic support, life skills development, social and emotional learning, and opportunities for healthy recreation. The curriculum aligns with guidelines set by New York State, helping students improve academic performance and promoting positive study habits. Children receive dinner and snacks daily during the school year, ensuring they do not go to bed hungry, and during the summer they are provided all three meals, eliminating the summer hunger crisis for participants. Students take field trips, providing educational

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Our LAUNCH Middle School Program provides a safe, welcoming space where young people can grow, learn, and connect.

Designed for middle schoolers, it offers a blend of engaging activities, mentorship, and supportive guidance during a pivotal stage of development. Participants build friendships, develop confidence, and explore leadership through recreational activities, group discussions, and faith-based encouragement.

We strive to support the whole child — helping students thrive socially, emotionally, and spiritually while deepening their connection to the community.

The program runs afterschool during the academic year and transitions to full-time care over the summer.

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The Helping Hand Grant (HHG) is a scholarship program by The Salvation Army Brooklyn Brownsville Corps for graduating high school seniors from the Brownsville and East New York communities. The grant is a one-time award of up to $500, presented to students who have consistently demonstrated integrity, resilience, and service to others — with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.3 required.

To apply, students must submit a completed application along with two personal recommendation forms by Friday, May 15, 2026. Recommendations can come from a teacher, coach, community leader, religious leader, supervisor, or any other non-family adult familiar with the applicant's achievements. From the pool of applicants, some may be selected for an online interview with the selection committee.

Award recipients must provide proof of acceptance to an accredited college, university, community college, or technical/trade school before receiving the grant.

For more information or to apply, contact Captain Nereus Mogaria at 718-345-7050 or Nereus.Mogaria@use.salvationarmy.org.

Download the application here:

Salvation Army HHG Application (2026)

Salvation Army Helping Hand Grant Flyer 2026 PDF

Empowering youth with the tools, mentorship, and encouragement they need to build bright futures.

Empowering youth with the tools, mentorship, and encouragement they need to build bright futures.

Youth programs have been proven to foster social and academic development as programs provide safe and structured environments for kids during after-school hours, oftentimes filling the space between the end of the school day and when parents return from work.

We know that every parent wants the best for their child’s future. Sometimes, in a world filled with distractions and challenges, finding the right support system can make all the difference. From homework assistance and tutoring to encouraging higher grades and boosting motivation to team-building activities and cooperative learning experiences that help develop essential social skills, our after-school programs are designed to empower kids to unlock their potential and thrive.

Stats

87 children

ages two to five attended our childcare programs across five licensed centers in New York City for free early childhood education

8 licensed

afterschool programs across New York City and the Lower Hudson Valley, supporting youth facing social and economic challenged

547 campers

were in attendance at Star Lake Camp at no cost, enjoying activities like hiking and swimming

Help give a safe space for a child to grow, learn, and build lifelong skills.

Help give a safe space for a child to grow, learn, and build lifelong skills.

Donate today to provide essential youth services in your community, empowering the next generation and creating opportunities for education, mentorship, and personal growth to help them reach their full potential.

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