What Is africanservices.org and Who Does It Serve?

Updated

africanservices.org is the website of a multi-service human rights agency in Harlem, New York City, that provides direct support to New York City newcomers from across the African diaspora, including people from Africa and the Caribbean. It is relevant to you if you are a newcomer in NYC looking for help with housing, health care, legal matters, food access, education, or social welfare, or if you want to support that work.

Who the organization serves

The agency describes its clients as New York City newcomers from across the African diaspora. Its team represents 15 countries and 20 languages, and many staff members share similar migration journeys to the people they serve.

Its stated reach each year:

Measure Figure
Clients directly receiving services 1,200+
Outreach community 10,000+
Years serving the community Over 45
Countries and languages represented on staff 15 countries, 20 languages

What services it provides

Services are offered under one roof, so clients do not have to navigate multiple agencies on their own. According to the site, these include:

  • Health services — free and confidential testing, prevention, referrals, counseling and mental health support, women's and maternal health education, and a pathway to affordable primary care.
  • Housing services — a Rental Housing Program that helps eligible clients navigate New York City's housing systems and secure apartments.
  • Legal services — free legal services for eligible New Yorkers, including consultations and direct representation.
  • Social welfare — case management and supportive counseling shaped by the needs and experiences of the communities served.
  • Education — free English as a Second or Foreign Language (ESOL) and computer literacy classes for work, communication, and daily life.
  • Pantry services — a food pantry serving over 5,000 individuals and families annually.

How to decide whether to reach out

The site frames its work around stability and independence for newcomers, with wraparound services rather than a single program. If your needs span more than one area — for example, housing plus legal help plus food access — the one-roof model is the main reason to start here rather than with separate agencies.

Two practical notes before you contact them:

  • Eligibility applies to some services. Housing support is described for eligible clients, and legal services are described as free for eligible New Yorkers. The site does not spell out the eligibility criteria, so confirm your situation directly.
  • The site does not publish pricing, hours, or an intake process. Health services are described as free and confidential, and ESOL and computer literacy classes as free, but do not assume every service is free or open without checking.

The site offers two entry points: Get Help for people seeking services, and Get Involved for those who want to support the organization.