Neighborhood Initiatives Development Corporation (NIDC) proudly announced the launch of its first-ever Care Closet with a ribbon-cutting ceremony held on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at PS/MS 89 in the Bronx.
As New York City grapples with rising living costs, persistent inflation, and record cold temperatures this winter, basic necessities remain out of reach for many families. In response, the NIDC Care Closet provides students and families with essential items during times of need, including toiletries and hygiene products, shelf-stable food, school supplies, and clothing such as socks, hats, gloves, and t-shirts. The program reflects NIDC’s ongoing commitment to meeting basic needs while fostering stability and well-being within the Bronx.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony was attended by Jaime Rodriguez, Parent Coordinator, Assistant Principal Jones, NIDC Associate Executive Director Amy Shebar, Senior Director of Youth and Family Services Christy Olsen, other NIDC leadership, NIDC COMPASS Program Directors Johnny Ponce and Bergelda St. Louis, and afterschool staff and participants, who gathered to celebrate the launch of this new resource for the school community.
“Many of our neighbors are feeling the squeeze of both an unusually harsh winter and the stress of rising living costs,” said William Foster, NIDC Executive Director. “Care Closets give families a dignified, supportive way to get the basics they need, right in their own school community.”
Care Closets are a growing model of community-based support that offer discreet, immediate access to essential items for students and families in need. As a deeply rooted, community-centered organization, NIDC recognizes that access to these basic items is often inconsistent for many families. Through its programs in multiple Bronx schools and at the Eastchester Gardens Community Center, located within the Eastchester Gardens NYCHA development, NIDC has built strong relationships with residents and students who benefit from this type of accessible support.
“With utility costs, groceries, and cold weather demands rising faster than many household budgets, resources like Care Closets are more important than ever,” added William Foster. “We want families to know they have a reliable place to turn without judgment.”
NIDC extends special thanks to Christina Zagarino and longtime Bronx resident and NIDC team member Hazel Miura, whose generosity made this first Care Closet possible.
NIDC aims to establish and maintain fully stocked Care Closets at each of its afterschool program sites and at the Eastchester Gardens Community Center. Community members, businesses, and corporate partners are invited to support this effort by sponsoring a Care Closet for one year to help ensure neighbors have access to essential items when they need them most.
For more information about supporting a Care Closet, please contact Amy Shebar at ashebar@nidcny.org.
About Neighborhood Initiatives Development Corporation (NIDC)
Founded in 1982, the Neighborhood Initiatives Development Corporation (NIDC) is a Bronx-based nonprofit dedicated to strengthening individuals, families, and neighborhoods through a dynamic and holistic approach to community development.
Featured image credit: DepositPhotos.com
