STATE SENATOR JEFF KLEIN, THROGGS NECK HOUSES RESIDENTS’ COUNCIL & COMMUNITY BOARD 10 HOST FIRST EVER SPRING COMMUNITY CLEAN-UP DAY IN THE BRONX

Klein, Local Volunteers, Police Service Area #8 Explorers Join Together to Beautify Throggs Neck Houses

State Senator Jeff Klein together with Assemblyman Benedetto, the Throggs Neck Houses Residents’ Council, Community Board 10 and volunteers from the Police Service Area #8 Explorers, today held the first ever spring community clean-up day at the Throggs Neck Houses in the Bronx. Senator Klein co-sponsored the event, joining in the fun with local volunteers as they collected trash and debris, cleared walkways and picked up after the long winter.

“Today, we are facing a crisis of affordable housing in New York City – not only is there limited availability for New Yorkers in need, but our public housing has been left in a state of disrepair and neglect,” said Senator Klein.  “By working together in the spirit of community to clean up the Throggs Neck Houses, we are providing local residents with a cleaner, greener place to call home. A special thanks to Assemblyman Benedetto, the Residents’ Council, Community Board 10 and all the volunteers who came out, joined in the fun and got their hands dirty for our spring cleanup.”

The Department of Sanitation, in partnership with Community Board 10, donated garbage bags, brooms, rakes, shovels and an array of cleaning supplies for the event. Volunteers kicked off the morning at the Residents’ Council’s office with donuts and coffee and departed to one of the 29 buildings in the complex shortly after. Everyone broke for lunch at noon, munching on hamburgers, hot dogs, chips and cupcakes. All attendees participated in an exciting raffle, with a chance to win fun prizes like a brand-new bike and gift cards to target.

"By hosting our first ever Throggs Neck Houses community clean-up day, we are encouraging residents and volunteers to get involved and make a difference right here at home," said Monique Johnson, President of the Throggs Neck Houses Residents' Council. "The simple fact is, a cleaner community creates a unified community, stronger community and a loving community. Thanks to Senator Klein, Assemblyman Benedetto, Community Board 10, Resident Engagement and the Police Service Area Explorers we are ready for spring!"

As New York City’s public housing stock has faced a significant decline in recent years, community beautification projects play a vital role in ensuring NYCHA developments are safe, secure and sanitary. In this year’s state budget, Senator Klein secured $100 million in funding for New York City public housing, representing the largest investment in NYCHA in more than 15 years.