About | Cypress Hills LDC

Built by Brooklyn.

For more than 40 years, Cypress Hills Local Development Corporation has worked alongside residents of Cypress Hills, East New York, City Line, Starrett City, and Spring Creek to create opportunity, protect families, and strengthen neighborhoods.

We were founded by local residents who believed their community deserved better—and that same belief still drives us today. From housing and education to workforce training, youth programs, food justice, and community organizing, we help neighbors build brighter futures right here in Brooklyn.

We’re not just in the community. We’re built by it.

When Brooklyn Faced Disinvestment, Neighbors Took Action

In 1983, Cypress Hills residents, merchants, parents, and local leaders came together during one of the most difficult chapters in neighborhood history. Buildings were abandoned. Families were displaced. Businesses were struggling. Resources were scarce.

Instead of waiting for outside solutions, the community created one. That grassroots movement became Cypress Hills Local Development Corporation.

What started as a small neighborhood effort has grown into one of Brooklyn’s most trusted community organizations—serving tens of thousands of residents each year while staying rooted in the same mission:

Help people stay, grow, lead, and thrive where they live.

homeowner

Stronger Together.
United Community Centers + CHLDC

For more than 65 years, United Community Centers has been a trusted community anchor in East New York. Founded in 1954 by local residents, UCC created safe spaces, essential services, and opportunities for generations of Brooklyn families. Through youth development, early childhood education, public health, and food justice programs, UCC has helped neighbors grow and thrive for decades.

65+

years serving East New York families

120

children served through early childhood education

15,000+

residents reached annually through programs and outreach

urban farms + 2 farmers markets supporting food access

In 2024, United Community Centers officially joined forces with Cypress Hills Local Development Corporation. After decades of partnership, the merger created a stronger, more connected future for East New York.

WHAT WE BELIEVE

Community Should Shape Community

We believe the people closest to the challenges are closest to the solutions. That means our work starts by listening to residents, not making assumptions. Many of our staff, leaders, and board members live in or come from the neighborhoods we serve. Some started in our programs themselves.

We don’t just provide services.

We help grow leaders.

From youth participants becoming staff members, to parents becoming advocates, to residents shaping policy—we invest in people who invest back into Brooklyn.

OUR IMPACT

Decades of Real Change

Housing & Stability

800+ affordable housing units developed
Homeowners supported through foreclosure prevention and repair services
Tenants organized and protected

Over the years, our community-driven work has helped create lasting neighborhood progress.

Youth & Education

Programs serving young people from early childhood through college success
School partnerships across East New York and Cypress Hills
Safe spaces for learning, growth, and leadership

Jobs & Economid Mobility

Career training in construction, tech, transportation, healthcare, culinary, and more
Job placement and credential pathways
Financial literacy and wealth-building support

Community Wellness

Public benefits enrollment
Food justice and urban farming programs
Health education and wellness services

WHO WE SERVE

We proudly serve residents across:

Cypress Hills

East New York

City Line

Starrett City

Spring Creek

Our neighborhoods are diverse, resilient, and full of culture, talent, and possibility. Our role is to help unlock it.

WHY SUPPORT MATTERS

Invest in Neighbors, Impact Generations.

When you support Cypress Hills Local Development Corporation, you invest directly in people and neighborhoods that deserve long-term opportunity.

This is how stronger neighborhoods are built. Together.

Your Support Helps Fund:

Youth mentorship and leadership programs
Affordable housing initiatives
Job training and career pathways
Food access and wellness programs
Community centers and safe spaces
Resident-led advocacy and organizing
& so much more!

Strengthen Brooklyn From the Ground Up

For more than four decades, we’ve proven what happens when communities lead their own future. And we’re just getting started. For more information or to learn how to get involved, fill out the form or contact us at:

Administrative Office:
625 Jamaica Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11208-1203
Phone: (718) 647-2800
Fax: (718) 647-2805
Hours: Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm

Cypress Hills East New York Community Center:
276 Chestnut Street
Brooklyn, NY 11208-1203
Phone: (917) 451-8954
Hours: Mon-Fri, 9am-9pm & Sat, 10am-3:30pm