Dear Friends and Colleagues:

Everyday, we are asked, “What do we intend to accomplish in Hunts Point?”  Our vision is clear.  That every child in the 10474 zip code has access to the basic necessities all children need to learn, grow and develop their potential: educational resources, sound nutrition, safe and secure housing.  This is our call to action and our hearts will not rest until we achieve this vision.

The academic year 2009-2010 has been a year of positive growth and development.  We have been able to expand our network to include new funding partners and service providers who recognize the potential of the children and families living in Hunts Point.  As one individual said: “ I can’t believe this level of poverty exists in my backyard.  What can I do to help?”

The first step is the hardest, you must take the time to visit and understand why many say it is “the forgotten neighborhood” and the “dumping ground” for New York City.  You must come and meet the children and their families, visit the schools and community based organizations that are all working together to guarantee that every child is well educated, well nourished, and well housed . Everyone who meets the children of Hunts Point recognizes how special they are and are touched by their resilience, their desire for a better life and their energy to succeed.

Many individuals have taken the time to come to the Hunts Point peninsula – Bronx, 10474.  They come as visitors and leave as friends committed to helping HPAC achieve its vision.  We are grateful to these new friends who in the past two years have helped launch: The Family Project, Project 2015 College Scholarship Program, The Food Program, The Hunts Point Children’s Shakespeare Ensemble, The Career Education and Mentoring Program at Fordham University, Kenyon College Young Writers Workshop, Bank Street Summer Camp, The First Job Initiative and the HPAC Scholars Program.

What can you do?  Come as a visitor, leave as a friend, and help make our vision a reality.   Graham Greene’s words capture our spirit: “There is always a moment in childhood when the door opens and lets the future in.”  At the start of the 2010-2011 academic year, we need to open approximately 8,000 doors for children growing up in the 10474 zip code and invite you to join us.

Warmly,

Maryann G. Hedaa

Managing Director