A 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a whole lot of heart
Empower.Uplift.Serve.
Uplifting with heart. Empowering with purpose. Building stronger communities together.
Our impact so far!
Each milestone inspires us to keep growing and helping more young people, families, and seniors flourish.
2,200+
families helped
1,330+
children helped
10,500+
food provided
Come on in. What brings you here?
There’s a place for you at Wayside, whichever door you pick.
I could use a hand
Food, job support, youth programs and seasonal help. You don’t have to do this alone.
See how to sign up →
I want to pitch in
We’re always looking for dedicated volunteers. Become the difference someone needs today.
Volunteer with us →
I’d love to give
Every contribution, big or small, helps uplift families and empower youth.
Give today →
Programs made with love
W.O.W.
Women of Worth
Build confidence, self-worth, leadership, and life skills in girls and young women.
Coming January 2027
S.T.A.N.D.
Strong Teens Achieving New Dreams
Tools, support, and guidance to help teens make positive choices and reach their goals.
Feed the Community
Each season we pick a borough and serve hot meals to families and neighbors, with dignity and respect.
Job Placement
Résumés, interview prep, and real connections to employers, with guidance that continues even after you’re hired.
Seasonal Giveback
Backpacks for back to school, turkeys for Thanksgiving, and toys and warm coats for Christmas.
Born from sisterhood, built for community!
Wayside was founded by women whose bond began decades ago at the Wayside Home School for Girls in Valley Stream, N.Y. They made a promise: no one like them would fall through the cracks again.
What began with five founders is now a board of nine dedicated women, serving girls, women, families, seniors, and youth with love.
What our community is saying
“What Wayside is doing with the Christmas toy giveaways is truly a blessing. It means so much to know there are organizations that genuinely care about families.”
“I love volunteering with Wayside because it puts a smile on my face to see someone else happy. Knowing that I helped make someone’s day a little better is an amazing feeling.”
“As a mother of six, every little bit helps. Last Thanksgiving, I left with an entire shopping cart full of food and supplies. Organizations like Wayside are a blessing to families like mine.”
