Our Mission
We are neighbors helping our new neighbors. Our mission is to support these families and their children by helping them cover their basic needs, navigate the system, and improve their quality of life and provide a humanizing and welcoming experience as they go through one of the most difficult and uncertain periods of their lives.
Your time goes a long way!
Whether you are in person or remote, there are so many ways you can help! Spanish, French, Chinese, and Arabic speakers are especially appreciated. Use this form or reach out to us directly at fbfneighbors@gmail.com.
Our Story
In November 2023, we began noticing an increase in migrant families on the streets, in public schools, and on the Q35 bus, often dressed in summer clothing despite the 40-degree weather. These families had faced traumatic journeys and were unprepared for New York City's winter.
In response, we organized clothing drives that evolved into large distribution events at Floyd Bennett Field. As our community connected and our volunteer base grew, we formed a committed mutual aid collective called Floyd Bennett Field Neighbors, dedicated to addressing the needs of our new neighbors.
The Situation at Floyd Bennett Field
In November 2023, NYC established migrant camps at Floyd Bennett Field in Brooklyn to accommodate the overflow of over 170,000 new arrivals. The site currently houses about 2,000 people, all families with children, in four tents. The remote location poses significant challenges, including limited transportation, distance from urban areas, and environmental concerns due to its position in a flood zone with strong winds. The living conditions, consisting of semi-enclosed spaces without ceilings, have been criticized for inadequate protection from harsh weather. These issues, along with flooding, insufficient heating, and public health concerns due to communal living, have negatively impacted the psychological well-being of the migrant families, who have fled from various countries such as Venezuela, Ecuador, Haiti, Guinea, and China.
What We Do
FBFN has supported over 700 families by providing them with access to basic needs, including warm winter outerwear, new underwear, clothing, shoes, suitcases, strollers, backpacks, and toys. We also created the largest communication channel within the tents so residents can communicate with one another and answer each other's questions. We also liaise with the Mayor's Office and NYC Health & Hospitals (the agency running the tents), along with other local NGOs and mutual aid groups to support families in finding and obtaining services.
Free Store
In April we opened a FBF Neighbors Free Store off the Q35 bus line where residents could "shop" with dignity for thier famlies needs. We are now focusing on regularly sorting and distributing items. We need volunteer help running the store! Sign up to work a shift!
Communication
FBF Neighbor's Instagram has the most up-to-date information on donation needs, events, and the free store schedule. We also run a WhatsApp chat to share information in real time. To join, please fill out our volunteer form.
Other Initiatives
There are many strands of the work! Read about them here, including our Summer Joy Guide, our advocacy work with NYC Health & Hospitals (the agency that runs the tents), and the Suitcase Campaign, where we successfully provided one suitcase per family.
Press
NY Daily News | The City | NYPost | Truthout | Gothamist
Community Partners
We work with these organizations as part of a broader effort to help families, giving them agency and a helping hand as they build a better future for themselves.
Volunteer stories
"Providing a humanizing experience for these families who've been through so much and being a warm, welcoming face. I end most conversations and shopping trips with Bienvenidos a Brooklyn!"
Ava Morales Brooklyn
"Welcoming folks that have gone through such hard experiences to get here. Giving them hope and good energy to find the resilience they need."
Tom Stevenson, Brooklyn
"At one of the first mass distributions at Floyd Bennett, a man approached me. I asked what he needed, and he said, “a guitar.” That was so touching. While most people asked for clothing and shoes, this man asked for something that would make his life more beautiful in uncomfortable conditions."
Tilly Green, Brooklyn