Views from the Northwest Bronx

UNHP staff and Bronx residents who are frustrated with NYC affordable housing lottery have come together through a newly formed group called Bronx AHORA to fight for more deeply affordable units, a transparent process, and more free assistance to help housing seekers through the complicated and frustrating process.

Just in time to celebrate our 40th anniversary, UNHP is happy to announce that our long-desired goal of installing solar panels in our affordable multifamily buildings is finally in reach thanks to a combination of low-cost programs, tax incentives, and our continued persistence in pursuit of increased sustainability. Seven buildings will move forward with solar in 2023.

UNHP reflects back on the summer events and successes of the Northwest Bronx Resource Center (NWBRC) to bring financial and housing resources to our Bronx community.

The UNHP Northwest Bronx Resource Center is committed to bringing needed resources to our Bronx community. That commitment is renewed as we face this ongoing COVID-19 crisis. We know people need information about health, food, financial, and housing resources at this time. This guide was updated in February 2021. The link to the updated guide is in the blog and can be also be found on our website under publications/guides

The COVID 19 pandemic has shown that community health is national health is global health. Community-based healthcare networks, like Bronx Community Health Network, Union Community Health Center, and Morris Heights Health Center, offer both medical care and services that Bronx families need to stay well and treat chronic illnesses, like diabetes, hypertension, asthma, and HIV.

Despite the need to close our NYC Free Tax Prep Program on March 14th due to the rising health concerns from COVID 19, UNHP was able to assist 920 low-to moderate income Bronx residents file their taxes for free and access on-site financial and affordable housing services.

The Norwood Community Resource Fair co-sponsored by UNHP and Legal Aid Society provided a variety of free housing, immigration, legal and health services to the Norwood community. Norwood is a vibrant Bronx community located at the end of the D train line.

UNHP is still buzzed from our Reclaiming Our Community Thru Affordable Housing, Art and Services Day on June 19th. The trifecta of events included a luncheon and information session for building operators, a ceremonial ribbon cutting at the mural created by The Royal KingBee and a well-attended Community Resource Fair.

Another tax season for UNHP's Free Tax Preparation Program has ended. Working with our partners and volunteers, UNHP assisted over 1,500 tax filers with free, professional tax preparation and so much more!

On Saturday, October 20th, UNHP held its 2nd annual Bronxtober Fest – offering a wide range of on-the-spot assistance for the crowd of over 80 Bronx residents. Thanks to our Fordham University and Manhattan College student volunteers, over 60 attendees enrolled in Housing Connect, NYC’s online affordable housing lottery.