07/08/2026
We’re elated to share the good news that our Boys & Girls Republic grades K-5 afterschool program has received full COMPASS funding for the next six years!
This award is the result of a concerted and spirited advocacy effort that began after we received the devastating news that, amid the complexity of the city’s procurement process, the program had not received a new contract. The reversal is wholly due to an amazing collective effort of advocacy for a program that for the past 30 years has been essential to the stability and health of our community. Our campaign for BGR funding raised the voices of our team members, parents, local elected officials, and most important, the children whom BGR serves—including representatives of our youth self-government program who wrote letters and spoke out on the meaningful role that BGR plays in their lives.
We’re grateful to City Council Members Harvey Epstein and Althea Stevens (a BGR alumna) for their advocacy and leadership, and to the Department of Youth and Community Development who joined us receptively and creatively at the table, listening to the needs of our community and finding a solution in a world of limited resources.
To make change, Henry Street believes we must listen, reflect, and then act. This huge win for our community could not have happened had not all parties engaged together in a truly collective effort. The result is stability, inclusivity, care, and hope for our community, achieved through a time-honored program that supports children’s learning, creativity, confidence and mental health, while allowing parents to work knowing their children are safe and nourished in all ways. Thank you.❤️
