What Services and Programs Does africanservices.org Offer?
Updated
africanservices.org is the website of a multi-service human rights agency in Harlem that provides wraparound support to New York City newcomers from across the African diaspora. Its services fall into six main categories — health, housing, legal, social welfare, education, and pantry — all offered under one roof so clients don't have to navigate multiple agencies on their own. If you are a newcomer from Africa or the Caribbean living in NYC and need help with essentials like health care, housing, legal matters, or food access, this is the range of what the organization says it provides.
Health Services
The agency offers free and confidential services including:
- Testing and prevention
- Referrals
- Counseling and mental health support
- Women's and maternal health education
- A pathway to affordable primary care
Housing Services
Through its Rental Housing Program, the organization helps eligible clients navigate New York City's housing systems and secure apartments. The stated goal is to help clients plan their next steps with more stability.
Legal Services
Free legal services are available to eligible New Yorkers, including:
- Consultations
- Direct representation
One documented example: a client who fled political persecution in Cameroon came to the U.S. with her three children, and the agency's legal staff helped her file an asylum application and secure her first interview.
Social Welfare
Social welfare services are designed to reflect the needs and experiences of the communities served. They include case management and supportive counseling.
Education
Free English as a Second or Foreign Language (ESOL) and computer literacy classes help clients build skills for work, communication, and daily life.
Pantry Services
The food pantry serves over 5,000 individuals and families annually, aiming to bridge gaps in access to nutrition "with respect and dignity."
Who These Services Are For
The agency describes itself as serving New York City newcomers from across the African diaspora, with a team representing 15 countries and 20 languages. It reports:
| Metric | Figure |
|---|---|
| Clients directly served each year | 1,200+ |
| Outreach community | 10,000+ |
| Years in operation | 45+ |
How to Access These Services
The site provides two main paths: Get Help for those seeking services, and Get Involved for those who want to support the organization. Eligibility applies to some programs — legal services and the Rental Housing Program are both described as being for "eligible" clients, so it's worth confirming your situation when you reach out. The page does not list prices or payment requirements for any service.