Houston Street Center

The Houston Street Center is a 44,000-square-foot community building co-owned and co-operated through an innovative partnership between University Settlement and the Chinatown YMCA.  With state-of-the-art recreational and educational facilities, and plenty of flexible space, the Center is a unique resource for the entire community.  In 2010, the Center served approximately 8,800 people, close to 5,000 of whom are low-income, an increase of 40% over the previous year.  A range of vibrant programs geared towards the entire family included free community events, low-cost swimming and fitness classes for all ages, a middle school after-school program and summer camp and a regularly updated art exhibition.  A special emphasis on seniors includes a comprehensive health and wellness program, as well as a new osteoporosis prevention program, presented in conjunction with Beth Israel Hospital.  In addition, the Center provided free or subsidized space to nearly 180 local non-profit organizations.