Relief Programs

We give families in crisis essentials for survival

Every day, families who were forced to leave the homes they knew, whether from eviction or domestic violence, find comfort and dignity in the essentials we provide them. Our health educators and social services coordinators distribute clothing, nutritious food, diapers, hygiene kits, and other baby and personal care needs that are often difficult to find or access. During the holidays, we invite families to Candy Cane Lane, an annual holiday event where they can select warm clothing, toys and other gifts for the season, and our Good Health Shuttle provides round-trip, door-to-door transportation to care.

Programs

Basic Relief

Essentials for those who have lost everything

A new mother needing diapers, wipes, and baby blankets; hungry kids in search of nourishment; families needing fresh garments and underwear after leaving home with only the clothes on their backs. We provide these essentials along with their care so they can heal and take a first step toward a fresh start.

Candy Cane Lane

Where holiday dreams come true

One week every December, we invite patient families who will be spending their holidays in shelters or safe houses to an enchanted event we call Candy Cane Lane, where they choose from an array of free clothes, gift cards, and merchandise for the holidays.

Good Health Shuttle

A driving force in healthcare

The Floating Hospital removes transportation as a barrier to medical care by providing free, round-trip vehicle transportation to patients in shelters or domestic violence safe houses all over the city, and public housing developments in Northwest Queens.

Literacy Initiatives

Reading is fundamental

The Floating Hospital has incorporated literacy programs into its “more than healthcare” model, partnering with Reach Out and Read of Greater New York to provide books to families with young children to read aloud together and develop early literacy skills.