Step Up for the Bronx
The Bronx is in crisis. According to July labor statistics, unemployment in the Bronx is nearing 25%. This is not only the highest rate in New York City, by far — with 1 in 4 people in the Bronx out of work, unemployment in the Bronx is at its highest since the Great Depression. And... Read More
Step Up Awards $20K to Support Covid-19 Relief in Bronx CB9!
We’re pleased to announce we’ve awarded $20,000 to support Covid-19 relief efforts in The Bronx! The funds will go towards the distribution of hygiene packets and groceries for those in need. This includes shelter families, veterans, and seniors in our community. Additionally, the grant will support the New York City Housing Authority, and St. Paul’s... Read More
Staff Spotlight: Andrew Thomas, Jr.
“Believing People Matter.” It’s more than just a slogan. For our Program Director, Andrew Thomas, Jr., it’s the source of his passion for social services. Andrew’s been active in the field for 17 years. He’s certified as a Qualified Mental Health Associate, and his background includes case management, housing, homelessness, mental health, art education, crisis... Read More
Back-to-School Supply Drive a success!
This week, 60,000 educators returned to New York City schools to begin planning and preparing. On Monday, September 21st, children will return, in-person, to the classroom. From building safety to mandatory testing, it’s a moment that raises many questions. But for almost half of all South Bronx children living in poverty, going back to school... Read More
Latest Pop-Up Food Pantry Feeds South Bronx Community
We’re excited to share the success of the latest pop-up food distribution co-sponsored by Step Up. On July 22nd, we helped serve over 5,000 residents of the Boricua Village housing development! A dedicated team of staff and volunteers provided food to the majority residents of this South Bronx development — almost 600 households spread across... Read More
Staff Spotlight: Twila Waters
For as long as she can remember, Twila Waters has been passionate about helping people in need. From her experience in social services and nonprofits in the South Bronx, to her roots in nearby food pantry work… From her dedication to senior living to her work in affordable low-income housing in the Bronx… The desire... Read More
Step Up Staff Spotlight: Louis Rodriguez
Louis Rodriguez knows a thing or two about stepping up. As Executive Director, Step Up for Better Living wouldn’t be where it is today without him. But when COVID-19 arrived in the South Bronx, Louis knew the organization could do more. Louis helped launch The Step Up Emergency Food Fund with one goal in mind:... Read More
Bronx Food Pantry Pop-Ups a Success!
For 1,400 South Bronx families, the nearest local food pantry was closer than ever last month. That’s because of two pop-up food distributions co-sponsored by Step Up for Better Living! The food giveaway events, held on June 24th and 25th, were a great success. Staff and volunteers served residents of seven buildings in the Port... Read More
Racial Injustice Statement from Executive Director Louis Rodriguez
During this painful time, we join our clients and community in grieving the death of George Floyd. We believe all individuals have the right to live with dignity, and be treated with respect. Our mission is to help people in our community feel safe, secure, and well. These values inform the work we do every... Read More
Step Up Stories: Leslie and Trinity
Meet Leslie and her daughter Trinity! The Step Up team met them recently at BronxWorks, where we went to volunteer to help distribute food purchased in part with a grant from our Emergency Food Fund. Leslie and Trinity are our neighbors here in the South Bronx. Trinity loves the swimming classes at BronxWorks. The pandemic... Read More