East Harlem Block Schools
Meeting a Community's Child Care Needs
Project Site at Park Ave. and East 111th St.
When faced with a lack of quality childcare options in East Harlem four decades ago, a group of committed parents established a nursery school for the children of the community. As a result, East Harlem Block Schools (EHBS) was born – a community-based organization with the goal of generating community leadership and self-empowerment through educational and community development programs and services.
Today, EHBS is once again meeting the community’s needs. The percentage of children under the age of five in East Harlem is higher than the national average, and many children are on waiting lists for day care. EHBS is working to create a mixed-use development that would include a child care center as well as affordable housing.
The Pratt Center and the Low Income Investment Fund are helping EHBS develop the project,
which will integrate sustainable design strategies resulting in green building
benefits for the child care center, residents, and the surrounding community.
The Pratt Center is preparing an architectural analysis and providing planning and design
assistance.
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