MISSION

At Bodega Cares, we empower communities to address critical challenges through a lens of holistic health and well-being. From combating homelessness and fostering mental health awareness to supporting youth development and aiding migrant integration, we recognize that thriving communities begin with a foundation of health—physical, mental, social, and economic. By promoting unity, amplifying diverse voices, and delivering inclusive, transformative programs, we create pathways to resilience and equitable opportunities for all New Yorkers.

Vision

Our vision is a New York City where every individual has access to the resources they need to thrive, and neighborhoods are united, equitable, and vibrant. We aspire to build a future where underserved communities are no longer defined by challenges but celebrated for their resilience and potential.

We accomplish our mission through:

1. Community-Centered Programs

We provide direct services to address pressing needs such as:

• Affordable housing: Offering transitional housing programs and connecting individuals to permanent housing resources.
• Mental health and substance abuse support: Conducting outreach, offering counseling, and providing education to reduce stigma and promote well-being.
• Youth and education initiatives: Running after-school programs, mentorship opportunities, and scholarship funds to ensure young people thrive.
• Migrant and asylum seeker support: Providing legal assistance, job training, and language classes to help new arrivals integrate and succeed.
• All programs are designed based on input from the communities we serve, ensuring they meet real needs effectively.

    2.  Advocacy and Awareness

We amplify the voices of underserved populations by:

• Advocating for equitable policies in areas like housing, healthcare, and education.
• Conducting public education campaigns to combat stigma, xenophobia, and Islamophobia, fostering greater understanding and inclusivity.
• Partnering with stakeholders to influence systemic change and address root causes of inequity.

    3. Collaborative Partnerships

  We build networks of support by working with:

• Local nonprofits and community organizations to maximize impact.
• Businesses to fund programs and engage in corporate social responsibility.
• Government agencies to align with public initiatives and secure resources.
• Volunteers and community leaders to deepen our reach and build trust.

 How We Work: Bodega Cares takes a holistic, grassroots approach to solving community challenges. We don’t just provide services; we empower individuals to build better futures for themselves and their families by addressing the interconnected challenges of health, housing, education, and economic opportunity.