The inception of Practice of Peace (POP) can be traced back to the 1970s, a period that witnessed a significant rise in homelessness in the Bronx, New York, due to a devastating decline in housing, economic upheavals, and the construction of the Cross Bronx Expressway.

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As the borough grappled with the loss of over 58,000 housing units and the aftermath of deinstitutionalization policies, a group of Bronx residents ignited a movement of resilience and hope through collective action and an innovative approach to mental health.
 

This early initiative laid the foundation for what would evolve into Practice of Peace.

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In the 1990s, the Bronx faced significant challenges exacerbated by a confluence of factors, including strained city finances, abandoned housing, high unemployment, and a burgeoning homelessness crisis.  As the city grappled with budgetary constraints, funding for social services and affordable housing initiatives was often limited, leaving many Bronx residents vulnerable to housing insecurity.  This lack of investment in housing infrastructure intersected with national economic trends, contributing to a rise in homelessness throughout the borough.  The resulting strain on social services and shelters placed immense pressure on local communities and exacerbated the Bronx's longstanding struggle with homelessness and rebuilding.

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By the early 2000s, the Bronx faced a renewed homelessness crisis. Gentrification, budget cuts, and the cancellation of housing assistance programs contributed to the scarcity of low-income housing options.  In response, the founders of Practice of Peace revitalized their mission, drawing upon their past experiences to address the complex challenges of homelessness with compassion and innovation.

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A pivotal moment in POP's history came in 2018 when the organization secured funding from the City of New York to establish a shelter tailored for LGBTQ individuals, marking a commitment to inclusivity and empowerment.  Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, Practice of Peace expanded its services to include affordable and supportive housing, demonstrating remarkable adaptability and resilience.

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As an organization, Practice of Peace has always embraced collaboration with the many entities that work together in support of the Bronx’s communities.  This includes the politicians and administrators who have dedicated their careers to building a more just and humane city, along with other nonprofits, businesses, and neighbors wanting to make a difference.

 

Today, Practice of Peace stands as a beacon of hope, a testament to the enduring power of community and compassionate action.  Through the lens of Health Realization, Appreciative Inquiry, and the ethos of a learning organization, the nonprofit continues to evolve, inspiring positive change and transforming lives one story at a time.