Two LI nonprofits to get $200K each from Bank of America

Bank of America has named The Safe Center and Wyandanch Homes and Property Development Corp. as its 2022 Neighborhood Builders. 

Each organization will receive a $200,000 grant along with leadership training for the executive director and an emerging leader on topics that include increasing financial sustainability, human capital management and strategic storytelling. 

The BOA Neighborhood Builders program, which has already assisted 34 organizations on Long Island, is designed to help them expand and improve their services, according to a company statement. 

“Long Island’s nonprofits are vital to filling gaps in basic needs and advancing equity on Long Island,” Marc Perez, president of Bank of America Long Island, said in the statement. “The Safe Center and Wyandanch Homes and Property Development Corporation help some of the most vulnerable people in our communities, including those experiencing abuse, violence, and homelessness, with comprehensive support. I look forward to seeing them build capacity and continue to thrive as Neighborhood Builders.” 

The Safe Center, based in Bethpage, supports survivors of domestic abuse, child abuse, and sexual violence with a wide range of services and resources including crisis intervention, advocacy and case management, mental health counseling, legal advocacy and representation, safe housing and education programs. 

Wyandanch Homes and Property Development Corporation provides affordable rental housing in its 27 houses for homeless, low-income families in Suffolk County, as well as supportive services to help program participants establish economic self-sufficiency. It will use its grant funding to establish a pilot program that addresses barriers to employment for low-income Long Islanders such as career training, transportation, and access to childcare. 

On Long Island, Bank of America has invested more than $7 million to local organizations through its Neighborhood Builders program since 2005. The invitation-only program is highly competitive, and organizations are selected by a committee comprised of community leaders and past Neighborhood Builders.