Social Services

As a Christian community, The Riverside Church endeavors to provide access to comprehensive social services for those in economic and social crisis. We seek to enable people in need within our community to more fully support and nurture themselves and their families so that they can move out of poverty.

People who utilize our Social Services programs may receive referrals to job training programs, employment agencies, or other services. The Riverside Church also helps clients in need of public assistance, SNAP (Food Stamps), and Medicaid, through information and referrals.

View NYC Community & Social Services Resources Information

For more information please call Debra Northern, Minister of Parish Care at 212.870.6741.

Food Pantry
The supermarket style Food Pantry distributes food Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

 

Shower Project
Open every Tuesday and Friday to the first 25 people from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., the Shower Project is designed to meet the needs of the sheltered and unsheltered homeless men and women in need of a shower and clean clothing in New York City. Each guest receives a care basket filled with soap, shampoo, conditioner, towels, and other essentials. Twenty minutes is allotted to each guest to enjoy a hot shower while their clothing is laundered. Volunteers and social services staff provide referrals for additional services to shelters, soup kitchens, medical facilities, counseling, advocacy, and employment.

 

Barber Training Program
Every Monday and Tuesday from 1:00-4:00 p.m. for 6 weeks, participants are trained in barbering skills. Free haircuts are available to the community on those days from 1:00-3:15 p.m.  Application for Licensing is completed after graduation.

 

Clothing Distribution
Every Tuesday and Wednesday from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon, clothing distribution takes place at the Food Pantry. Professional clothing suitable for job interviews is available by appointment only. Walk-ins cannot be served. Clients with specific needs may call to speak with clothing ministry staff or volunteers.

Professional clothing is distributed on Thursdays from 9:30-11:30 a.m., and a referral from Grant Associates is required.