WASHINGTON - U.S. Representative Edolphus “Ed” Towns (NY-10) today announced that the U.S. House of Representatives approved more than half a million dollars to provide vital social services to urban youth living in high poverty Brooklyn communities.  The funding was included in the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2010.  The next step for the bill is approval by the United States Senate.

“I am proud to support Groundwork’s efforts to reshape Brooklyn communities and help those who need it the most,” said Rep. Towns.  “Groundwork is a great example of an organization working to reshape Brooklyn communities and provide a brighter future for our children.”

Rep. Towns secured $600,000 for Groundwork, Inc., to develop the Groundwork Neighborhood Family Support Center, which will host early childhood programs, after-school and summer school programs, family counseling and several other programs for Brooklyn families.  Groundwork is a non-profit organization that provides comprehensive family support services for more than 500 families in the East New York neighborhood in Brooklyn.  

“Groundwork was thrilled to learn of Congressman Edolphus Towns’ support for the Groundwork Neighborhood Family Support Center,” said Groundwork Executive Director Richard Buery, Jr.  “East New York has very few places where community members can come together in a nurturing and welcoming environment, but the Family Support Center will serve as a critical safe space within the East New York community.  This funding will enable Groundwork, in partnership with Congressman Towns, to continue delivering high-quality programs to thousands of East New York families.”

Groundwork’s mission is to support young people living in high poverty urban communities as they develop their strengths, skills, talents and competencies through effective experiential learning and work programs.

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