Housing Services
The Old First Ward offers Housing programs through the City of Buffalo, NYS Affordable Housing Corporation and NYS Housing and Community Renewal.
The Old First Ward has some of the oldest original workman’s housing in the city. We provide rehabilitation loans to prolong the useful life of our historic homes, coordinating efforts with city inspectors, housing courts and block clubs. Newly built homes are designed to fit into the character of the neighborhood, and home buyer initiatives support home ownership with classes, counseling and subsidies.
Community Development
The Center is deeply involved in strategic planning throughout the South Buffalo/Buffalo River community. We take a holistic approach to serving our residents, building safer, stronger neighborhoods through stronger, healthier families. Current projects include a renaissance of the South Park commercial strip, Boathouse Park on the Buffalo River, Louisiana Street residential revitalization, and the Larkin District development project. Block Clubs, community safety initiatives and community advocacy help give the residents a voice in the region.
Partnerships
As a founding member of the Buffalo Community Center Collaborative, we are in the forefront of settings standards for not for profit administration in Buffalo. The twelve members of the Collaborative meet monthly to share programs, resources and expertise to strengthen our community. We are also partners in the Partnership for Community Living with NHS South Buffalo and Homefront.