University Settlement Society of New York

University Settlement Society of New York, established in 1886, is the nation's first settlement house. It is dedicated to providing comprehensive social services to New Yorkers, particularly those in Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn.

Their mission is to build stronger communities by offering a range of programs that address the diverse needs of the city's residents.

Early Childhood Education

University Settlement offers a spectrum of early childhood education programs designed to support working families and prepare children for kindergarten and beyond.

These include center-based learning, neighborhood-based family childcare, and home-based assistance. Programs emphasize individual and group learning activities, recreation, free play, music, creative arts, reading, storytelling, nutritious meals, and field trips.

Youth Development

The organization provides safe, fun, and purpose-driven environments for over 3,000 youth annually.

After-school, summer camp, and college access programs are rooted in positive youth development and social-emotional learning models that build students’ self-awareness, self-expression, and leadership skills.

Mental Health and Wellness

Nearly 1,900 individuals receive high-quality mental healthcare from culturally sensitive professionals each year.

These services help individuals and families navigate life's challenges, promoting overall well-being within the community.

Housing Services

University Settlement combats homelessness by partnering with neighbors to identify financial problems early and prevent evictions.

The Project Home initiative helps more than 1,500 New Yorkers achieve stable housing annually.

Adult English Classes

The organization offers comprehensive 10-month English and civic education programs to over 350 low-income adult immigrants in NYC each year.

Classes build language and systems literacy skills to help participants navigate life, support their families, and achieve personal goals.

Older Adults

Engaging more than 1,100 low-income seniors annually, University Settlement provides various services including meals, health and wellness programs, recreational activities, case assistance, housing counseling, and referral resources.

Programs promote longevity through education, art, recreation, and nutrition to keep elders active, connected, and cared for.

Community Centers and Arts Programs

The organization operates community centers in Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn, serving as places for gathering, collaboration, and belonging.

Arts programs include The Creative Center, which brings art’s healing power into healthcare settings, and The Performance Project, fostering collaboration between professional artists and low-income New Yorkers.

Locations

University Settlement operates in multiple locations across Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn. These locations serve as hubs for diverse programs, fostering community engagement throughout the city.

• 184 Eldridge Street, NYC, NY 10002: Main office and Early Childhood Center.
• 189 Allen Street, NYC, NY 10002: Neighborhood Center for Older Adults.
• 177 Myrtle Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11201: Ingersoll Community Center.
• 273 Bowery, NYC, NY 10002: Houston Street Community Center.
• NYC, NY, USA
• Brooklyn, NY, USA
• New York, NY, USA