On December 19, residents of Betances Houses and Grand Street Guild gathered for warm and festive Christmas celebrations hosted in partnership with Catholic Charities of New York. For families facing financial pressures — especially during the holidays — these events offered not only gifts, but also community, music, and a sense of hope.
A Celebration That Felt Like Home at Betances Houses
“The celebration was very decorative with a backdrop for photos, and someone dressed as Mrs. Claus. It felt very homey. There were multiple tables with toys for the kids to select,” shared Lynette Peña-Oliver, Director of Bronx Housing Support Services at Catholic Charities Community Services, who works closely with residents at Betances Houses.
More than 150 families attended, and what struck Lynette most was the gratitude she witnessed. “What stood out the most was that both parents and kids were appreciative for the gifts received,” she said.
For many residents, holiday joy can feel out of reach because of daily financial challenges.
“Betances Houses is a low-income community. Residents are challenged with their finances on a day-to-day basis. Having these types of events gives them a reason to connect with others, receive resourceful information and a gift for their child,” explained Lynette.
These gatherings also reflect Catholic Charities’ mission in action.
“These types of events reflect the mission of Catholic Charities by helping them have a gift for their child throughout the holiday season and creating a better community that feels safe and seen. The children and families can see for themselves that there are caring professionals that provide support, so they don’t feel alone in the community,” said Lynette.
“A moment of joy feels very rewarding knowing that we are impacting communities and meeting the needs of families to include children, adults, and seniors,” she added.
Lynette also expressed gratitude for those who help make events like this possible.
“We are serving people in need of social support, financial assistance, and multiple presenting needs. By sponsoring these celebrations, the quality of life in these individuals increases and provides a sense of hope,” she said.
For the children at Betances Houses, that hope looked like smiles, laughter, and gifts chosen just for them — a reminder that their community cares.
Community Spirit Shines at Grand Street Guild
On that same day, residents at Grand Street Guild gathered for their own joyful holiday celebration, filled with music, food, and community connection.
The Grand Street Guild holiday celebration was held in the St. Mary’s Church bingo hall and featured a live Latin band playing salsa, merengue, bachata, and other popular music. Food was catered by the local restaurant Rinconcito, and Catholic Charities staff, resident volunteers, and Catholic Charities Community Services leadership helped distribute meals. Toys donated by former District Leader Daisy Paez were given out to families throughout the event
What stood out most was how neighbors cared for neighbors.
“Grand Street Guild and the Lower East Side are a strong community. Our resident volunteers gave toys and food out to their neighbors, further forging community bonds. It was truly a family affair,” said Samuel Ortiz Jr., Director of Catholic Charities at the Grand Street Guild.
More than 150 families and households were served during the event — and for many, that sense of belonging mattered just as much as the gifts.
“As a community and social Services provider integrated within Grand Street Guild, we take pride in serving the community with tailored and thoughtful programs and events,” said Samuel. “The holiday is a time when we offer a small token of appreciation towards our volunteers, youth, and families that participate in our everyday programming.”
Events like this also connect directly to Catholic Charities’ mission of service and accompaniment.
“At Grand Street Guild, we offer year-round programming, services, and events. Each service caters to what has been assessed by our team as critical needs. The events we host and create serve as a way for the community to create stronger bonds. This is particularly critical for those residents that may feel isolated or lonely during the holidays or a family that may need some assistance with toys for their children,” said Samuel.
Year-round, the team continues to walk alongside residents.
Grand Street Guild provides case management services to all households and offers onboarding and ongoing support for recently homeless residents through the OurSpace program. The team also hosts seasonal ESOL classes through the International Center, distributes free weekly nutritious food — including produce, lean protein, and dairy — and coordinates youth-focused programming throughout the school year and summer.
“Our program is heavily reliant on the goodwill of our resident volunteers. This human-power allows our staff to serve our community year-round, rain or shine. Donors that support our events would make our impact even greater. It would allow our human resources to fully focus on making the largest impact for the community,” said Samuel.
Looking ahead, the team remains committed to walking with families.
“Our Catholic Charities Social Services team has served Grand Street Guild residents and the local community since 2017. As a new kid on the block, full of century old neighborhood settlement houses and other community-based organizations, we have been able to carve out a very special niche in our area. We look forward to serving all those that come through our doors in the coming years,” said Samuel.
Together, the celebrations at Betances Houses and Grand Street Guild reminded everyone that moments of joy can strengthen entire neighborhoods. With continued partnership and generosity, Catholic Charities will keep walking alongside families — at Christmas and all year.
