Partner Spotlight: Rutgers Presbyterian Church

The creativity, commitment and range of services provided by Rutgers Presbyterian Church (RPC) makes them one of our most valuable community partners. Mobilizing the support of their congregation and local community, RPC has organized food drives for our family shelters, book and DVD drives for our veterans, and holiday gift drives for our older adults. The church has also donated funds to VOA-GNY and serves as an official Drop Location for Operation Backpack®, making it possible for the public to participate in that campaign by donating new backpacks.

RPC offers community programs, including art classes and creative storytelling, to families in the neighborhood, and has graciously extended these services free-of-charge to children attending our Bronx Early Learning Center. During these activity sessions, the children can play, create, and express themselves freely. In addition, children in daycare and recreation at VOA's family shelter on the Upper West Side visit biweekly to flex their creative muscles by participating in art projects and playtime in a calming environment, abundant with activities.

Over the past year, RPC has "adopted" this family shelter, collecting donations to enhance their recreation and childcare departments. The wish lists for these "dream spaces" (curated by our staff) include art supplies, toys, furniture and more.

Thank you, Rutgers Presbyterian Church, for your tremendous support!