Celebrating the Bronx!

Thousands of Bronx residents gathered to celebrate their community in mid-June, an annual event that highlights the Bronx people and places. Bronx Week includes entertainment and fairs, features open houses hosted by local business and organizations, and culminates with a community parade.

World Vision’s New York Programs joined in the celebration by hosting its third annual Bronx Week open house. The “Eye on the Bronx” open house provided World Vision associates and member organizations an opportunity to connect with one another and share about the services and resources they offer.

"I love coming to World Vision’s open house because I have the chance to meet and connect with other organizations within the Bronx and share resources," says Wanda Haskins from New Life for Girls, a faith-based house for women who are at difficult crossroads in life.

During the open house, World Vision honored Hunts Point Multiservice Center and Manhattan Bible Church as partnering organizations that provide outstanding service to New York City. Target also was recognized for its generous donation to World Vision’s work in New York. Door of Salvation, a local men's shelter, also was acknowledged for its exceptional service in volunteering atWorld Vision's local warehouse facility. World Vision’s Storehouse in the Bronx receives new, first-quality products from generous manufacturing and corporate donors, and provides these essential goods to community organization for distribution to those in greatest need.

As World Vision continues to serve as a resource and networking agent in the community, an event like the annual open house provides key opportunities to connect member organizations with other community resources.

For example, Gloria Cruz of St. Ann’s Church serves as an advocate against gun violence. While visiting the Storehouse open house, Gloria met Officer Chris Traumer of the local 49th Precinct, and the two were able to share ideas for raising awareness about violence among young people.

"Our Eye on the Bronx event...was an excellent opportunity for us at World Vision in New York to enable our partners in the community to get to know and network with one another," said Tim Reeve, Warehouse General Manager in New York. "Being able to pool their knowledge and resources together makes for more effective ministry to people in need."

World Vision staff and volunteers also marched in the parade that marked the end of the week’s celebrations. Thousands of other proud marchers and bands also made their way up Mosholu Parkway as they reflected Bronx pride and the joy of being a part of the Bronx community.