HEARTS CENTER
A CENTER FOR HEALTH, EDUCATION AND ARTS
A VISION FOR COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT
The HEArts Center will be a transformative space in the South Bronx, dedicated to addressing longstanding disparities in health, education, and access to the arts. Designed with, and for, the community, HEArts will deliver programs and services tailored to the unique needs of Mott Haven and Port Morris residents. This vibrant, multi-use facility will serve as a hub for wellness, learning, creativity, and connection, fostering a healthier, more equitable future for all.
For more information, please contact Devan Cronshaw at devan@southbronxunite.org
WHAT HEARTS WILL OFFER
Holistic and Preventative Health Services:
Preventive care, mental wellness programs, family health services, developmental disability support, and maternal health resources.Education & Workforce Development:
Training in green jobs and clean energy, after-school programs, and initiatives addressing the needs of underfunded local schools.Arts & Culture:
Music lessons for youth in the neighborhood, visual arts lessons, performing arts events.
A COLLABORATIVE EFFORT
HEArts is being developed through a partnership between the Mott Haven-Port Morris Community Land Stewards and Alembic Community Development, in collaboration with the local community and South Bronx Unite, to ensure the space reflects the vision and needs of residents. The building, once completed, will be stewarded by the Mott Haven-Port Morris Community Land Stewards, securing long-term community control.
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WHY HEARTS MATTERS
In a neighborhood often overlooked, HEArts stands as a bold response to systemic inequities. By providing vital services and opportunities, the Center will empower residents, enhance quality of life, and inspire the next generation of leaders and changemakers in the South Bronx.
BREAKDOWN OF SPACES
Cellar Level
The Cellar Level will house a flexible auditorium with retractable seating, multiple practice rooms, and workshop spaces designed for music, performance, or community programs. It also includes a green room, a warming kitchen, storage areas, and essential mechanical and utility rooms.
1st Floor
The First Floor serves as the public heart of the building, featuring a welcoming lobby, reception area, tenant spaces for community organizations, and a kitchen space. A spacious foyer leads to the auditorium balcony, while offices and classrooms support educational and cultural programming.
2nd Floor
The Second Floor will feature office spaces, meeting rooms of various sizes, and a terrace facing the rear, south-face, of the building. We have a Letter of Intent from Green City Force in place to provide its innovative green jobs training program at HEArts, focused on empowering young people living in NYCHA developments.
3nd Floor
The Third Floor is dedicated to health and wellness and administrative functions, with offices, workrooms, and meeting spaces supporting tenant organizations. A kitchenette, phone rooms, and shared support areas under the skylight will foster productivity and healing, while a terrace provides outdoor space for relaxation and informal gatherings. South Bronx Unite and The Mott Haven-Port Morris Community Land Stewards have committed to bringing environmental justice, arts and culture, and health and healing programming throughout the space.