POTS is embarking on a bold project
With the recent expansion of our facilities and programs, we are paving the way for sustainable change in our community:
- More space, better service: our growth provides a larger program space, a classroom and a positive environment for low income New Yorkers to explore their potential.
- More success for more clients: Our service model breaks the cycle of poverty for hundreds of clients annually. Going forward, we plan to affect thousands more!
- Focusing on long-term social change: Building a financially sustainable organization means we can create permanent changes in New York City.
Community is at the core of our expansion
Being true to our values and the spirit of our founders, we are making sure that our organization remains a place for community building and a support network for those who do not have a place to call home.
Since 2023, we have further empowered our clients and elevated their voices through our Community Advisory Committee. The CAC provides feedback in our service delivery, guide our growth process and provides context to our advocacy efforts so that we have a more inclusive decision-making process.
Why The Bronx?
24.4% of all Bronx residents have incomes below the federal poverty level. In addition, at least 25% of the households residing in the neighborhoods surrounding POTS identify as food insecure.
The unemployment rate in The Bronx is currently at 7.4%. (3% more than the US national rate), and New York City recently lost 176,000 jobs, primarily affecting those at lower-income households.
60% of residents in the neighborhoods surrounding POTS are classified as rent burdened. This has resulted in the Bronx experiencing the highest eviction rate in New York State. As of December 2022, more than 34,000 eviction proceedings were filed in the Bronx.
Despite all these factors, POTS has worked with our diverse community of clients to succeed in overcoming these challenges and to create sustainable solutions.
