Youth Services
Youth Services Information
Background
Harlem’s distinct character and historical legacy have cemented its status as a cultural hub unlike any other in New York City. The area holds great cultural significance for Black and Latino residents, who comprise the largest population. As the tides of economic development bring change, we must preserve that legacy while uplifting underserved residents. Many residents face poverty and lack of affordable housing, realities worsened by the onset of gentrification. About one-fourth of households live below the poverty line, and one-fifth receive SNAP benefits. Additionally, elementary school absenteeism is higher than the city average at 33%, highlighting the importance of investing in our youth.
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.
Feeding
Many New Yorkers are food-insecure, and The Salvation Army is on the front lines addressing this critical issue. Through food pantries, soup kitchens, and special holiday meals, we serve as an essential nutritional resource at our 38 community centers. We ensure that our neighbors can rely on us as an ally in the fight against hunger.
Emergency Services
The Salvation Army is a leading international disaster response organization, deploying resources in local and national emergencies. In New York, we partnered with responders in the wake of the September 11th terrorist attacks, Superstorm Sandy, and the COVID-19 pandemic, among other catastrophic events. Our team is trained in recovery, mitigation, and preparedness. We also consider poverty a slow-moving disaster and respond through our street outreach for unhoused New Yorkers. The Salvation Army supports affected individuals and families during natural disasters or unforeseen crises.
Program Schedule
Timezone: -05:00 USA Eastern Time (DST)
Location:
Timezone: -05:00 USA Eastern Time (DST)
Location:
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.
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.
Other Services
