Dear NYFS Supporters,
Summer has arrived following a bustling spring at NYFS. We worked hard to show up for our community during Operation Metro Surge, and we continue to walk alongside individuals and families experiencing its ongoing effects. In the midst of this, we’ve been thoughtful about strengthening our internal structure as the mental health landscape changes at the federal and state levels. NYFS has experienced significant growth and clarity these past few years, and this work brings better balance to our operations, creates greater infrastructure for compliance and quality, and poises us for intentional growth. Part of that growth has been rounding out our services to address real gaps in the community. Our sliding fee scale (which slides down to $5 per session) continues to see greater use, along with our new on-site pantry.
For all its sunshine, summer can bring real challenges for the youth and families we serve. When the school day’s structure disappears — along with reliable access to healthy meals — children’s mental health can suffer. Summer can be a lonely season for some kids, and caregivers feel the stress of piecing together childcare, safe recreation opportunities, and keeping kids connected with friends, often while their own wellbeing dips. NYFS provides consistent care all summer long, to ensure everyone has the support they need regardless of the season. And because youth do better when their grown-ups are well supported, we’re offering new services targeting caregivers’ needs around parenting.
You can help fill summer’s gaps, too — our pantry currently needs hygiene products and kid-friendly foods, and I’d love to welcome you to our Morning Open House Tour on July 29.
Thank you for standing with us, in every season.
Sincerely,
Angie
