Programs & Services
At Hearts of Gold, we work to break the cycle of poverty by supporting single mothers and children living in New York City shelters. We work with local shelters and providers by administering programs and services that provide basic needs assistance, build family resilience, and create pathways to stability through education, housing support, and economic empowerment through employment. All of our work is guided by three pillars: Stabilize, Support, and Sustain.
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​Together, they ensure that our families move from the instability of homelessness toward permanent, safe and stable housing. These efforts comprise Hearts of Gold’s efforts to help our mothers and children heal, grow, and thrive — building stronger futures and more resilient communities.
Stabilize: Emergency Assistance
Baby Shower-in-a-Bag: Newborn supplies—diapers, bottles, blankets, and more—for mothers in temporary housing, helping them prepare safely for their child’s arrival.
Fresh Start Bags: Basic needs assistance with hygiene and essential items for families as they first enter shelter, supporting housing stability.
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Coats for Christmas: Seasonal coats, hats, and gloves to keep children protected and ensure family resilience during New York’s cold months.
Support: Year-Round Programs
Virtual Tutoring & Learning Center (Grades 2-12): Free academic support for students in temporary housing, helping children achieve educational equity, improve literacy, and close the achievement gap.
Parenting Education: Practical workshops on parenting skills that strengthen families, build resilience, and provide tools for raising children in safe and nurturing environments.
Financial Literacy & Economic Empowerment: Classes on credit building, credit repair, and savings strategies to support economic stability, promote self-sufficiency, and help families break the cycle of poverty.
Fresh Start University (FSU): Workforce development, job readiness, and job training and placement programs that prepare moms for long-term economic stability.
Sustain: Special Events + Community
Back-to-School Celebration: Durable backpacks and school supplies that provide school readiness and encourage academic achievement all year long. Families registered with Hearts of Gold can return at any time during the school year if their supplies run out, and their children will receive a fully replenished backpack.
Alumni Support Groups: A long-standing community of Hearts of Gold mothers, including some who have been with us for nearly 20 years. Alumni give back by mentoring others, sharing resources, and forming a peer support network that embodies family resilience and community health.
Education Workshops: We provide activities and events designed for mothers, focusing on building self-esteem, strengthening parenting skills, improving financial literacy, personal styling, and understanding their own mental health. We create a safe space where moms can recognize their needs and connect with supportive resources to address their mental health concerns
Holiday & Christmas Celebrations: A joyful, community-based event with gifts and activities that support youth development and family bonding.
Community Gatherings: Events that bring together mothers and children for encouragement, learning, and fun, building confidence and social connectedness.