Selfhelp Community Services history

In 1964, Selfhelp built its first apartment building in Flushing, Queens, which housed 200 Holocaust survivors in the first state aided project to be built in New York by a non-profit organization with on-site social services.

In 1993, The Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany provided funding and over time, the Claims Conference became Selfhelp’s most significant funder of our Holocaust survivor program, making additional vital services possible.

In 1995, Selfhelp established a Certified Home Health Agency to provide a full spectrum of home care services to individuals and families affected by HIV/AIDS.

In 2002, continuing our building boom of the 70s, 80s and 90s, the Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Apartments, our sixth residence, is opened in Flushing.

In 2005, aging services technology, including Computer Learning Centers, sensor technology, telehealth and brain fitness programs are introduced in our residences and among our home care clients.

In 2008, the Selfhelp Community Services Foundation is founded to raise, manage and steward philanthropic funds to support the work of Selfhelp Community Services.

In 2010, launched the Virtual Senior Center to provide live, interactive virtual classes to homebound older adults.

In 2012, Selfhelp brings Witness Theater to New York, partnering with the Yeshivah of Flatbush High School.

In 2013, in collaboration with UJA-Federation and the Defiant Requiem Foundation, Selfhelp participated in bringing The Defiant Requiem–Verdi at Terezín to Lincoln Center to raise funds and awareness for New York’s Holocaust survivors in need.

In 2014, Selfhelp opens its seventh affordable housing residence, featuring innovative aging services technology, a recreational green roof and an on-site health and wellness facility.

An encore performance later took place in March 2015.

In 2016, Selfhelp marks its 80th year of service by opening its tenth affordable housing residence, hosting two professional conferences, and forming a Chinese Advisory Council to raise awareness of our programs serving Chinese elders.