Many residents and organizations are already working together to create a thriving community for the children in the Burke Street Promise Neighborhood.
“Natural Leaders” Study
We are in the third phase of a community survey to identify the strengths, needs, and resources (including “natural leaders”) in the Burke Street School 40-block attendance area in order to rebuild community and enhance and promote services. This initiative is a joint project of the United Way of the Eastern Panhandle and Shepherd University.
Ready. Set. Grow!
The Ready. Set. Grow! Prep and Play Group for families with children age 0-4 is held quarterly at Burke Street School. Each week we share a healthy snack, fun activities and information about resources for infants, toddlers, caregivers and families to foster social and emotional development, creativity and school readiness. Families that attend all six sessions are eligible to earn incentives toward housing costs or rent. Each week we do a drawing for a gift card for groceries.
Parenting Partners
A PNI Community Team will facilitate Parenting Partners™ workshops at Burke Street School through a partnership with the Berkeley County Schools Office of Federal Programs. The workshops combine parenting and leadership skills that empower parents to become vital contributors to their children’s academic success.
Parent Recognition Program
During the Awards Assembly at the end of each nine week grading period, PNI in partnership with the school staff recognizes a Burke Street Family for being a positive remodel for other families. Families receive a certificate and monetary gift.
Free Market
In an area considered a “food desert” by the USDA, the Saturday Free Market provides fresh fruits and vegetables at Burke Street School through a partnership between PNI, Kilmer’s Farmer Market and Destiny Baptist Church. Participating families receive a text message alert when produce is available for distribution.
Follow our Facebook page to know when the market is open.
Garden of Promise
We will be entering the second planting season for the Garden of Promise, a community garden for PNI and Habitat families. Located on land owned by Habitat for Humanity of the Eastern Panhandle, this PNI partnership is supported by the WVU Extension Service Master Gardeners and generous donations of plants and seeds by local gardeners, Kitchen’s Orchards and Farm Market and Orr’s Farm Market.
Promise House/Family Resource Center
Promise House, a family resource center operated by Catholic Charities of West Virginia is now open in the neighborhood to provide much needed access to resources.