(WINGDALE, NY) – On Thursday afternoon, the Children’s Home of Poughkeepsie proudly unveiled their latest initiative to support Hudson Valley families with a grand opening and ribbon cutting of the Community Closet located in the Family Opportunity Center at 6423 State Route 55 in Wingdale, NY.

Thanks in part to the funding of Carve for a Cause, a grassroots organization created to raise funding and awareness for non-profits helping families, the Community Closet is the latest addition to the Family Opportunity to address the ongoing needs of local families. The closet is designed to provide easy access to essential items such as clothing, non-perishable foods, and toiletries as well as art and craft supplies, toys, and games. Located in the heart of eastern Dutchess County, this new initiative expands upon the resources the Family Opportunity Center already provides, furthering the community-based program’s commitment to supporting families.

“The Family Opportunity Center has been an integral resource for the community since it opened in 2023,” stated Erin Cafarelli, Chief Development and Public Relations Officer of the Children’s Home of Poughkeepsie. “The addition of the Community Closet is the next step to respond to the real needs we see everyday, from parents trying to provide for their children to individuals rebuilding after difficult circumstances. This is one more way we can say, ‘You are not alone.’”

To learn more about the Family Opportunity Center and its offerings, visit www.childrenshome.us.

About the Children’s Home of Poughkeepsie

On January 21, 1847, a group of Poughkeepsie women called the Female Guardian Society met to form the Poughkeepsie Orphan House and Home of the Friendless to care for the poor, abandoned, and neglected in their communities, most especially the children. They believed that all children deserve a nurturing and caring environment. More than 178 years later, their work continues.

Today, the Children’s Home of Poughkeepsie provides a full range of Community Based Services and Residential Services giving hope and healing to at-risk children throughout New York State. The Home is licensed by the New York State Office of Children & Family Services, the New York State Office of Mental Health, and the New York State Department of Health. The Children’s Home is accredited by the Council on Accreditation for its exemplary adherence to human welfare agency guidelines. In fiscal year 2024, the Home served approximately 1,791 children and their families.

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a place of healing and hope since 1847