BREAKING THE CYCLE OF POVERTY

Every year, our programs give nearly 400 women, children, and families the tools they need to begin their journey toward a life of self-sufficiency.

York Street Project Impact Report for 2024

LETTER FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

“When my daughter and I were sad, hopeless, and fragile, you came forward and stood strong. You put a roof over our heads and protected us with great kindness and responsibility. Thank you for showing your love and helping families so generously, giving your best with all your heart.”
– Ceceli, transitional housing resident

Dear Friends,

Every day at York Street Project, we witness the strength, resilience, and courage of the individuals and families we serve. The impact of your donation stretches beyond the need for food and shelter, it provides dignity and hope to women, children and families.

Your support has been instrumental in creating a community where hope thrives and lives are transformed. As a partner, we are reaching out to you now to make a donation to help us achieve our mission to serve women, children, and families in need.

Life is harder than it was five years ago. Everything is more expensive. Our children are struggling to regain knowledge lost during the pandemic. There is a feeling of uncertainty and anxiety in the world. Now imagine living with that baseline, and then it’s compounded by the fact that you don’t know where you and your children will sleep tonight.

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According to Hudson County’s latest count, the number of individuals experiencing homelessness has increased 27% in the last year. Sixty-five percent of those experiencing homelessness cited eviction as the cause. Families cannot afford housing. The NJ Department of Community Affairs reports there are over 165,000 New Jersey residents at risk of becoming homeless. That number is larger than the population of Paterson, the State’s third-largest city. We are in the midst of a crisis, and we need your help now.

This is a complex problem that requires a holistic approach to solve it. York Street Project understands what it takes to move a family from homelessness to wholeness. It takes essential services like safe housing, a dedicated case manager to help navigate a family’s needs, mental and physical health support, and job readiness training to help gain meaningful work and break the cycle of poverty.  York Street Project has created a nurturing environment where individuals and families can build sustainable futures and gain independence. Your partnership makes this transformation possible.

This year, we have helped over 300 individuals escape the grips of trauma, homelessness, and poverty. Our comprehensive programs and services have helped parents gain employment and find stability for themselves and their families. York Street Project is a true sanctuary for those who need us.

“…Thank you for providing light during a very dark time. I have grown, healed, and transformed in this space and the love and memories I have are unmatched. I have always wanted to speak and encourage other women to leave abusive partners or seek help for mental health. Might you ever need someone to be that beam of light speaking about the safe haven that is York Street Project, I’ll be here…. ”
– Holly, a resident fleeing domestic violence

As we approach the end of the year, we invite you to join us in our mission by making a meaningful financial contribution. Your gift will have a direct impact on the lives of the women, children, and families we serve. It will allow York Street Project to continue providing critical, holistic services and empower individuals and families to reclaim their lives and reach self-sufficiency.

Together, we can create a brighter future —one where everyone has access to the resources they need to thrive. Your commitment to our shared humanity is the lifeblood of the York Street Project. Let us work hand in hand to lift each other up and build a world where every family has access to housing, food, and safety. Your support can make that vision a reality today. Please use the enclosed postcard or our website to share your gift of hope to those who need it most.

Thank you for your unwavering support and belief in our mission. Together, we can change lives.

With gratitude,

Susanne Byrne
Executive Director

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