Bethpage Charity Recognized By Bank of America With $200K Grant

BETHPAGE, NY — The Safe Center, a Bethpage-based nonprofit recently received a $200,000 grant from Bank of America and training for its leader.

The Safe Center 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.

In addition to the grant, Bank of America is providing comprehensive leadership training for the executive director and an emerging leader on topics ranging from increasing financial sustainability, human capital management and strategic storytelling.

“The rise in intimate partner violence and other forms of abuse since the onset of the pandemic has dramatically increased the need for our services on Long Island,” said Joshua Hanson, incoming executive director of The Safe Center. “While The Safe Center has risen to the challenge, there is always more work to be done. The support we receive as a Neighborhood Builder will help us continue to assist and empower survivors while we work with other institutions to break cycles of violence and prevent abuse before it starts.”

Wyandanch Homes and Property Development Corporation, which provides affordable rental housing to homeless and low-income families, also received a grant.

“Long Island’s nonprofits are vital to filling gaps in basic needs and advancing equity on Long Island,” said Marc Perez, president of Bank of America Long Island. “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.”

On Long Island, 36 nonprofits have been selected as Neighborhood Builders since 2005, with the bank investing over $7 million into these local organizations. The invitation-only program is highly competitive, and organizations are selected by a committee comprised of community leaders and past Neighborhood Builders.