East New York Community Land Trust Moves to Secure Historic Space
- 6 hours ago
- 3 min read
Fundraiser Aims to Support Urgent Purchase and Expand Local Resources
The East New York Community Land Trust is entering a critical moment in its growth. After making history in 2024 as the first community land trust to purchase a multifamily building from a private developer, the organization is now working to secure another major property. This time, the focus is a historic building at 161 Jamaica Avenue in Brooklyn, New York.
Plans for a Community Hub
The proposed site would serve as an organizing and resource hub for the neighborhood. Leaders say the space would allow them to expand programming, support residents more directly, and strengthen long-term community control over local assets. The purchase also reflects a broader strategy to address displacement and rising housing pressures in East New York.
How the Model Works
Community land trusts operate with a different model than traditional real estate ownership. Properties are held in trust for the benefit of residents, which helps keep housing and community spaces stable and accessible. In areas facing rapid development, this structure can provide a buffer against speculation and price increases that often push long-time residents out.
Neighborhood Changes and Pressure
The planned acquisition of 161 Jamaica Avenue comes at a time when East New York continues to experience significant change. New development has brought investment into the area, but it has also raised concerns about affordability and access. The land trust’s work aims to ensure that local residents have a stake in shaping that future.
Fundraising Effort at Nowadays
To help complete the purchase, the organization is hosting a fundraising event on April 23, 2026, at Nowadays. The event comes with a clear deadline. The land trust must secure the remaining funds by the end of the month to move forward with the acquisition. Organizers say that every contribution from the event will go directly toward closing the deal.
Building Community Support
The fundraiser is expected to bring together residents, supporters, and members of the broader New York City community. Events like this play an important role in sustaining grassroots initiatives. They also provide a space for people to learn more about the work being done and how they can stay involved beyond a single night.
A Permanent Space for Organizing
Securing a permanent hub would mark a significant step for the East New York Community Land Trust. It would give the organization a stable base for meetings, services, and outreach efforts. It would also create opportunities for partnerships with other local groups, helping to build a stronger network of support across the neighborhood.
Challenges in the Market
At the same time, the urgency of the current campaign reflects the challenges that community-based organizations often face when competing in the real estate market. Even with strong local backing, acquiring property requires substantial resources and quick action. The upcoming fundraiser is one of the final opportunities to help bridge that gap.
Building on Recent Progress
The land trust’s recent achievements show that this model can work in New York City. The 2024 purchase demonstrated that community-led ownership is possible even in a competitive market. The current effort builds on that progress and aims to expand its impact.
A Collective Effort
As the deadline approaches, the focus remains on collective support. Organizers are encouraging anyone interested in housing justice, community development, or local culture to attend the event or contribute if they can. The outcome will shape not only the future of the organization, but also the availability of shared space in East New York for years to come.
A Direct Way to Support Community Ownership in East New York
Attending the fundraiser offers a clear way to contribute to a long-term community resource. The event supports a project that aims to keep space accessible, strengthen local organizing, and give residents a stronger voice in neighborhood development.