Views from the Northwest Bronx

In the midst of tough times due to the health and economic impacts of Covid-19, there is still much to be grateful for in the Bronx and at University Neighborhood Housing Program (UNHP). Almost a year into our transition to remote work and UNHP has managed to find a way to make significant strides towards our mission.

You may have heard about an Eviction Moratorium during Covid-19, that prevents tenants from being evicted during the Covid-19 crisis. It is true that there are many protections for tenants in place, but tenants must act to be protected. A moratorium places eviction on pause but does not cancel owed rent- so eviction proceedings can begin on renters who owe back rent when the moratorium is lifted.

Well-documented long-standing income, racial and ethnic disparities as well as health issues in the Bronx led to a disproportionate number of cases in the borough. 

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

On Friday, December 13th, Fordham University celebrated the 15th Anniversary of the Paul D. Coverdell US Peace Corps Fellowship Program at the University. UNHP as a community partner and internship site was invited and acknowledged at the luncheon.

29 Fordham University and Manhattan College student volunteers + 10 community partners + 2 housing workshops + 151 Bronxites + UNHP = 1 productive day for all at UNHP's 3rd annual Bronxtober Resource Fest!

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.

Thirty-three Bronxites came out to UNHP's First-Time Homebuyer Event/Evento Para Primeros Compradores De Casa on Thursday, May 2nd to talk to lenders, find out about special incentives and move forward on their path to homeownership.

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!