As we begin planning for next summer, we want to inform you that 2019 will serve as our final summer in New York. We are so thankful for the countless homeowners, community members, and friends we have met during our seven years serving alongside this community and we are excited for what God will continue to do in East Rockaway. 

In 2013, Next Step Ministries had the opportunity to partner with this community in disaster relief after Superstorm Sandy hit in the fall of 2012. This began an amazing seven summers of  relief with countless homes repaired and countless lives transformed. Now, the majority of Sandy – related relief work has wrapped up and through discussions with community partners, we have decided together that it is best to conclude our time in New York. 

To Bethany Congregational Church, thank you for hosting our groups and for coming alongside the work being done in the community of East Rockaway. It has been amazing to see how much the community has grown over the last several years and how they have been able to connect with the church, making it a part of who they are. 

To all the homeowners we’ve partnered alongside, thank you for your willingness to share your lives with us and partner with us in being a part of restoring the community. We thank you for the time and countless opportunities you have welcomed us to be a part of.  

To all the community partners and the community itself, thank you for trusting us and allowing us to feel welcomed and considering us as one of your own over the years. The trust and bond that has been created is one like no other. 

Thank you to all the students, leaders, and summer staff who served in New York and made these last seven years truly wonderful!

For more information on this transition, please contact us at missions@nextstepministries.com.