Staff Spotlight: Omid Tashayod
Back in March of this year, Omid Tashayod joined the Step Up family as a new member of our Board. At that time, it may not have seemed like there was much to celebrate. New York City was on the brink of shutting down, and our team knew how vulnerable our South Bronx community was....Read More
Every Voice Matters. Vote.
Voting. It’s fundamental to our democracy. And it’s vital that Americans from all walks of life have the opportunity to make their voices heard. But if you live here in the South Bronx, it isn’t always as easy as taking a long lunch. With unemployment nearing 25%, the average Bronx resident has a one in...Read More
Announcing: The Step Up Holiday Food Fund
Every family deserves to be able to come together over a turkey and trimmings on Thanksgiving. But here in the South Bronx, too many of our friends and neighbors are facing harsh food insecurity. Almost one third of Bronx residents don’t know where their next meal is coming from. That’s approximately 400,000 individuals — not...Read More
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