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BCS opened our first program, a home for homeless “newsboys.”
History Guides Us, Community Moves Us
In 2026, Brooklyn Community Services proudly celebrates 160 years of advancing opportunity and resilience across the borough.
Founded in 1866, BCS is one of Brooklyn’s oldest and largest human service organizations. Established by Brooklyn business leaders, philanthropists, and clergy, the agency was created to support Union veterans, widows, and families living in poverty. BCS has remained on the frontlines during every defining moment Brooklyn has faced, from the Great Depression to September 11th to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Today, that legacy continues through community-rooted programs that uplift Brooklyn’s most vulnerable neighbors. Our work focuses on at-risk children, individuals living with mental illness and developmental disabilities, and people and families experiencing homelessness and economic hardship—ensuring every Brooklynite has the support and opportunity to thrive.
BCS Milestones
For over 160 years, Brooklyn Community Services has remained committed to our mission. We empower children, youth, adults and families to overcome the obstacles they face. Together we partner with our community to ensure opportunities for all to access an excellent education, jobs, safe and affordable housing, quality health care and wellness programs.
1866
1897 - 1926
BCS mobilized to fight tuberculosis, influenza and to help Brooklynites stricken with polio.
1912
BCS was selected to participate in the annual New York Times Neediest Cases Fund, benefiting lowincome New Yorkers
1927 - 1956
During the Great Depression BCS nearly doubled the families served and tripled amount of yearly relief. We also began our pioneering family counseling and mental health services.
1987
BCS established the Gary Klinsky Afterschool program.
2001
BCS responded to September 11th by providing relief and recovery services.
2012
BCS responded to Superstorm Sandy by providing immediate and long-term recovery services in hard-hit Coney Island.
2014
BCS launched Youth Stand Academy for middle schoolers
2016
BCS opened four new Community Centers in low-income neighborhoods
2018
BCS broke ground on a new affordable housing project in Flatbush, Brooklyn. The project is in partnership with Mutual Housing Association of New York and The Baptist Church of Redeemer and intends to house families, seniors, and women transitioning out of homelessness.
2019
BCS entered a partnership with Brooklyn Borough President, Eric Adams, allowing us to give thousands of homeless Brooklynites access to New York’s first ever Mobile Shower Bus. The project receives additional funding through Unilever’s Right to Shower products.
Today, as we chart our course for the next decade and beyond, we’re resolved to build an even broader commitment to this cause and to continue to draw attention to the issues of poverty in Brooklyn.
BCS partners with communities to build a Brooklyn where all residents have access to the education, employment, housing, and other essential resources they need to thrive. We recognize the dignity, strengths, and talents of our neighbors, and have worked since 1866 to support resilient communities.
Brooklyn Community Services
151 Lawrence Street, Floor 4
Brooklyn, NY 11201
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