Samaritan Daytop Village Opens “Binky’s Backyard,” A New Playground and Community Space for Families in Shelter

Samaritan Daytop Village Opens “Binky’s Backyard,” A New Playground and Community Space for Families in Shelter

Playground will serve more than 325 families and honors beloved former staff member Gloria Binkowitz

(BRONX, NEW YORK) – May 28, 2026 – Samaritan Daytop Village today held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to open Binky’s Backyard, a new playground and community space that will serve more than 325 families, including nearly 600 children, at Gloria’s House Family Transitional Residence (Gloria’s House) in the Bronx. Gloria’s House is operated in partnership between Samaritan Daytop Village and the New York City Department of Homeless Services (DHS). The event also included the unveiling of a mural honoring Gloria Binkowitz, former Director of Family Services and staff member for over 30 years, for whom the residence and playground are named.

For many of the families living at Gloria’s House, this playground will provide access to safe and engaging outdoor space that has otherwise been limited. For children, having a place to play safely is essential to healthy development; it relieves stress, builds confidence, and provides the opportunity to experience the joys of being a kid, even during uncertain times. For parents, it offers a space to connect, support their children, and begin to rebuild routines that are often disrupted during periods of housing instability.

This playground was made possible through a $170,000 grant from Lowe’s Hometowns initiative, and the efforts of Lowe’s Red Vest associates and community volunteers, who helped Samaritan staff transform the once-empty lot into a vibrant outdoor space.

“We’re proud to open a space like this for the families at Gloria’s House. It’s a place they can spend time together, feel a sense of normalcy, and just enjoy being outside,” said Mitchell Netburn, President & CEO of Samaritan Daytop Village. “At Samaritan, we know that rebuilding happens in environments that feel safe and supportive, and Binky’s Backyard is now a part of that journey for the families at Gloria’s House.”

“Binky’s Backyard is a reflection of Gloria and the care she has shown to families over the years,” said Colleen Taylor, Board Chair of Samaritan Daytop Foundation, the fundraising arm of Samaritan Daytop Village. “She has always believed in creating spaces where people feel supported and connected, and now the families at Gloria’s House have a place where their children can play safely and where they can spend time together as a community. It’s something they’ll be able to use every day.”

“Today marks the realization of a vision years in the making — a welcoming space where children and families can connect, grow, and create lasting memories together,” said Gloria Binkowitz. “I am deeply grateful to the Samaritan Daytop Village family and everyone whose leadership and support helped make Binky’s Backyard possible.”

“Creating safe and supportive spaces for families is essential to building stronger communities across our borough,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “For the families at Gloria’s House, Binky’s Backyard will be more than a playground, but a place where children can laugh and play, families can connect, and they can find moments of peace and normalcy during challenging times. This investment reflects the power of partnership and the importance of ensuring every Bronx family has access to spaces that promote healing, dignity, and joy. Thank you to Samaritan Daytop Village, the New York City Department of Homeless Services (DHS), Lowe’s Hometowns, and all the partners and volunteers who helped bring Binky’s Backyard to life for the families at Gloria’s House. We are proud to honor Gloria Binkowitz’s legacy through a project that will positively impact generations of families to come.”

“Stability is fragile for families in transitional housing, but childhood shouldn’t be,” said Congressman Ritchie Torres. “Binky’s Backyard gives children at Gloria’s House a place to play, grow, and just be kids, even in tough moments. I am so grateful to Samaritan Daytop Village and Lowe’s for investing in Bronx families and the next generation of our borough.”

“As a strong advocate for affordable and supportive housing, particularly in the Bronx, I am proud to celebrate the completion of Binky’s Backyard,” said NYS Senator Luis R. Sepúlveda. “Projects like this demonstrate the meaningful impact that thoughtful community investment can have on the lives of vulnerable children and families. This space is far more than a playground, it is a symbol of dignity, hope, healing, and opportunity for families facing housing instability. It creates a safe and welcoming environment where children can simply be children, and where families can find a stronger sense of community and support. Initiatives like Binky’s Backyard remind us that investing in our children and families is an investment in the future of our neighborhoods and our city. I extend my sincere gratitude to Mitchell Netburn, as well as to Samaritan Daytop Village and all the partners and supporters whose collaboration made this project possible. Their commitment is helping restore joy, safety, and opportunity for families across the Bronx.”

“Every child deserves a safe place to play and grow, no matter their circumstances,” said NYS Assemblymember Yudelka Tapia. “I commend Samaritan Daytop Village, Lowe’s, and all of the partners who made this space possible. This is exactly the kind of investment our Bronx communities need and deserve.”

“Everyone deserves to have outdoor space, and this playground will bring just that – access and safety for hundreds of children,” said NYC Councilmember Oswald Feliz. “It’s a great addition for the families in the neighborhood and the Bronx.”

Across its transitional housing programs, Samaritan Daytop Village supports thousands of New Yorkers each year as they move toward permanent housing, with more than 800 individuals and families annually securing long-term housing.

ABOUT SAMARITAN DAYTOP VILLAGE:
Since 1960, Samaritan Daytop Village has been improving the quality of life for New Yorkers facing adversity. We are nationally recognized for our treatment of substance use disorder as well as for the veteran-specific approach we pioneered. Our continuum of services includes health and mental health care, transitional and supportive housing, educational and vocational assistance, peer-assisted recovery, and specialized programs for adolescents, families, and seniors. Annually, Samaritan Daytop Village serves over 36,000 people a year at more than 80 programs throughout New York City, Long Island, and the Hudson Valley.

ABOUT SAMARITAN DAYTOP FOUNDATION:
Samaritan Daytop Foundation was created in 1979 as the fundraising, housing development, and real estate arm of Samaritan Daytop Village, and champions the mission of the organization to improve lives by helping people help themselves. Samaritan Daytop Foundation raises critical funds to help expand the vast array of programs and services, including housing and shelters, addiction, mental health, and employment programs, which collectively serve over 36,000 New Yorkers with person-centered care each year.

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