Community Heartbeat Foundation is dedicated to uplifting children and families facing challenges in our neighborhoods, especially those living in transitional or undisclosed housing and children affected by domestic violence. Our mission is rooted in the belief that every child, family, and neighbor deserves to be seen, supported, and empowered.
On Friday, October 24th, 2025, we had the privilege of visiting Destiny Houses once again — this time bringing Halloween costumes and words of encouragement to local children. While the costumes may seem like small gifts, they sparked moments of joy, belonging, and seasonal magic. By placing these costumes directly into the hands of young residents, we were able to bring a sense of celebration and inclusion to families who are too often overlooked. It was a simple, yet powerful reminder that every child deserves to feel special, especially during the holidays.
A special thank you to Mary Dwyer of Characters for Chris Foundation, whose generous donation of costumes made this event possible. Mary, along with volunteers from the Marine Park Young Adults Association, worked tirelessly to sort and distribute the costumes, ensuring that each child received something meaningful. Their collaborative effort embodies the power of community and the shared responsibility we have to care for one another.
We would also like to express our gratitude to Board Members Mario Caggiano and Veronica Daniele for their presence and support. Their hands-on involvement truly reflected the spirit of Community Heartbeat Foundation, and their unwavering dedication to our mission helped make this outreach even more impactful.
Through initiatives like this and our ongoing programs across Brooklyn — from supporting families in public housing to reaching those affected by domestic violence — Community Heartbeat Foundation remains committed to addressing real, immediate needs in our community. Every costume, every smile, and every act of kindness strengthens the heartbeat of our mission: empowering communities, one meaningful act at a time.
On Monday, August 25th, 2025, we had the opportunity to visit Destiny Houses for a back-to-school giveback event. Through the efforts of the Marine Park Young Adults Association, who collected and assembled backpacks and school supplies during their volunteer project, we were able to distribute high-quality materials to students preparing for the new school year. Their hard work and generosity made a meaningful difference, providing children with tools that support both learning and confidence.
Board Members Mario Caggiano and Veronica Daniele joined us on-site, helping hand out the backpacks and taking time to connect with families. Their involvement brought warmth and encouragement to the day and reflects their ongoing commitment to serving the community.
Events like this highlight the power of partnership and the impact of showing up for those who need it most. Community Heartbeat Foundation remains dedicated to creating opportunities, fostering resilience, and standing with Brooklyn’s young people as they work toward brighter futures.
This August 2025, Community Heartbeat Foundation partnered with the Marine Park Young Adults Association to help Brooklyn students start the school year prepared and confident. The initiative focused on supporting children and families living in undisclosed housing and transitional housing, populations often overlooked and in need of extra resources.
The effort began on Saturday, August 9th, 2025, with a school supply collection hosted at Marine Park Coffee. Neighbors were invited to donate notebooks, folders, crayons, pencils, and brand-new backpacks, with the added perk of complimentary coffee for participants. All items were collected through Community Heartbeat Foundation, ensuring they would reach children and families most in need.
The community response was overwhelming. Thanks to outreach by Veronica Daniele, lifelong educator and Board Member, and many supporters spreading the word online, donations poured in throughout the day. Additional collections included one organized by Meryle Stouber McGowan at Holy Trinity Church.
Following the collection, volunteers came together on Saturday, August 23rd, 2025, to assemble 150 fully stocked backpacks. Members of the Marine Park Young Adults Association joined Community Heartbeat Foundation Board Members and community volunteers to sort supplies and pack each backpack with care. These backpacks are set to be distributed later in the month to children living in undisclosed housing and transitional housing, giving them the tools and confidence to succeed in the new school year.
This initiative highlights Community Heartbeat Foundation’s mission: uplifting marginalized communities, including those affected by domestic violence, through direct support, resources, and meaningful partnerships. By working together with local organizations and volunteers, the Community Heartbeat Foundation continues to ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive.
