Don Bosco Community Center of Port Chester
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Mission Statement
In partnership with God, the Center aims to help break the cycle of poverty through education and food security, enabling all people, especially the young, to reach their fullest potential.
About This Cause
The Don Bosco Center pursues its mission by addressing, with excellence and sustainability, some of the key roots of poverty—the educational and food security needs of the young, families, and those at the margins, especially immigrants—in the Greater Port Chester area, to foster a solid foundation for reaching their fullest potential as productive, responsible, and caring citizens. The Problem Food Security: The Center aims to support those experiencing food insecurity and poverty, primarily in Port Chester. Its goal is to provide both immediate and long-term assistance—not only to meet urgent needs but also to reduce the lasting and harmful impacts that accompany them. The data underscores the urgent need for support in Port Chester. Census reports estimate that 11% of our community lives below the poverty line—1.4% higher than the Westchester County average. This statistic highlights a substantial segment of our population grappling with economic hardship, often lacking access to consistent meals and basic resources. Without targeted support, these challenges can perpetuate a cycle of poverty across generations. Another clear indicator of the level of need in our community comes from reports by the NCES, which show that an average of 70% of children in our school district qualify for free or reduced-price lunches. This statistic reveals the widespread economic challenges faced by families and underscores the vital role that school-based and community food programs play in meeting the basic nutritional needs of our youth. The Don Bosco Center contributes to alleviating Port Chester's needs through the distribution of quality meals, groceries, and gently used clothing—essential resources that help stabilize families and support their dignity. These foundational services not only meet immediate needs but also serve as a critical platform for individuals and families striving for long-term stability and opportunity. Educational Needs: The Center addresses the pressing educational needs in Port Chester by actively working to expand access and increase opportunities for academic and personal success, especially for children from under-resourced households. The need for educational support in our community is underscored by the fact that spending per pupil in Port Chester is 34% below the Westchester County average, placing students at a significant disadvantage in terms of available resources and enrichment opportunities. A direct result of these disparities is the widespread underperformance of students between 3rd and 8th grade in English Language Arts and Mathematics, with data showing that 60% to 65% of children are below grade-level expectations. In response, Don Bosco delivers high-quality, community-accessible programming that includes school readiness, academic intervention, recreational activities, college access support, and adult education—empowering individuals at every stage of life to overcome barriers and thrive. For 94 years—long before its incorporation as an independent not-for-profit in 2007—the Don Bosco Community Center of Port Chester has been a vital part of the community, serving generations of local residents and families in need. While the Center is open to all, the majority of those it serves are from low-income Hispanic and African-American backgrounds, reflecting its mission to uplift the most vulnerable. Our Mission in Action Don Bosco Feeds This program aims to support those in the community who may be facing food insecurity and poverty primarily in Port Chester; however, no one is turned away from receiving help. With an estimated 11% of the local community under the poverty line and 70% of students qualifying for free and reduced lunch at the schools, this program seeks to provide both immediate and long-term assistance to those who may be struggling to make ends meet and put food on the table. The Center provides healthy meals and groceries, as well as a closet with gently used clothing options. Don Bosco Academic Enrichment and Summer Camp This program represents a cornerstone of our strategy to improve the quality of life for the community by providing a comprehensive range of educational and developmental resources. The primary goal of the Afterschool Program is to establish a safe, supportive, healthy, and accessible environment for all children, especially those who come from under-resourced backgrounds. The targets of the program include the enhancement of the children's education, the cultivation of positive virtues, and the provision of a solid foundation for their adulthood. Don Bosco Scholars The Don Bosco Community Center of Port Chester is an ecosystem of people who, by their love for the young and for those who need it the most, have an impact on the community. The Center is a good steward of people's generosity for the sake of addressing access to education, support, and basic human services. Don Bosco Scholars is on a mission to ignite the potential of first-generation students. Through our innovative college access program, we are breaking down barriers and providing the support and resources needed to help students soar to new heights. The program focuses on increasing access to higher education through close coaching and mentorship, giving students the opportunity to unlock their full potential and achieve their dreams. Early Childhood Bilingual Ed. The program is a unique and innovative program designed to help three- to five-year-old children and their parents or caregivers with the development of foundational skills required for school readiness—all in a 50-50 bilingual classroom led by well-qualified professionals. The Don Bosco Community Center of Port Chester is an ecosystem of people who, by their love for the young and for those who need it the most, make an impact on the community possible. The Center is a good steward of people's generosity for the sake of addressing access to education, support, and basic human services.