2025 – Since launching in 2020 with Revson as a start-up anchor funder, the Open Hearts Initiative (OHI) has organized and empowered New Yorkers to show up for neighbors experiencing homelessness and to stand up for shelter and housing as a necessary investment in neighborhood safety. OHI began as a volunteer-led organization, when a group of Upper West Side residents came together to support homeless neighbors who had been relocated to temporary hotel shelters in the neighborhood. As their new neighbors faced backlash from some community members, OHI volunteers worked closely with shelter residents and service providers to create a welcoming environment rooted in empathy, compassion, and respect. 

OHI members mobilize community resources to support homeless neighbors, engage in policy advocacy, and educate housed neighbors to build empathy and understanding. They have prepared New Yorkers to testify at community board meetings and meet with elected officials and they have held dozens of free stores and delivered hundreds of welcome kits, coats, and toys to shelter residents. Ultimately, OHI aims to generate the political will to end homelessness in New York City through activating neighbors who use their voices in support of creating permanent affordable and high-quality transitional housing in every neighborhood. They have seven neighborhood chapters and close to 900 volunteers. 

You can learn more about OHI’s work here.

Photo credit: Open Hearts Initiative