Governor Hochul unveils revamped office to strengthen faith-based community initiatives

In a transformative move, Governor Kathy Hochul has officially launched the revitalized Office of Faith and Non-Profit Development Services, marking a significant shift in New York’s approach to community development.

Formerly known as New York’s Office of Faith-Based Community Development and Services, this reimagined office aims to extend support to vulnerable New Yorkers while forging vital connections between communities and state grant opportunities.

Governor Hochul, quoting scripture, emphasized the collective responsibility to uplift and support one another, especially in times of hardship.

The newly established office, accompanied by the Interfaith Advisory Council, comprised of seasoned faith leaders, is poised to understand and address the diverse needs of congregants and residents across the state.

Faith communities, strategically positioned to tackle pressing challenges, will play a pivotal role in addressing the lingering impacts of the global pandemic, rising hate crimes, and the need for more affordable housing and employment opportunities.

The office will not only educate communities about available resources but also guide them through the intricate grant application and approval process.

In a groundbreaking move, Governor Hochul introduced the New York State Interfaith Council, spearheaded by a diverse Executive Committee.

This council, working in tandem with the Director of the Faith Office, is committed to building relationships, gathering resources, and collectively addressing community issues across the state.

To ensure a comprehensive outreach strategy, the Executive Committee members, under the leadership of Director Pastor Caura N. Washington, will embark on a statewide educational tour.

This 62-county tour aims to identify key partners, address on-the-ground issues, and facilitate connections between faith-based and non-profit organizations and grant opportunities.

The ambitious plan involves a $5 million investment to establish operations and facilitate grant-making. Initial funding of $1.5 million will gradually increase to $3 million, empowering the office to make grants to nonprofits up to $3.5 million.

These grants will focus on crucial areas such as affordable housing, combating hate crimes, maternal mortality, mental health care access, neighborhood safety, and increased affordability of college education.

Director Caura N. Washington expressed her honor in serving under Governor Hochul’s leadership and highlighted the office’s dedication to addressing evolving community needs.

New York State Secretary of State Robert J. Rodriguez echoed his support, recognizing the potential of Interfaith leaders to foster unity and positive change.

The Executive Committee, representing a diverse array of faith leaders, stands ready to take on the challenges ahead, working collaboratively to strengthen communities and usher in positive transformations across the state.

Executive Committee members are:

Internal Chair: Secretary Robert Rodriguez
President: Reverend A.R. Bernard
Jennifer Jones Austin
Rabbi Deborah Bravo
Rabbi Sharon Kleinbaum
Maury Litwack
Monsignor Kevin Sullivan
Pastor Darius Pridgen
Reverend Kia Brooks
Reverend Dr. Franklyn Richardson
Bishop Frank White
Reverend John Carter
Imam Mansoor Rafiq Umar
Bishop Raymond Rivera
Reverend Dr. Malcolm J. Byrd
Pastor Carl Washington, Jr.
Reverend Dr. Johnnie Green