Council Member Susan Zhuang celebrated the essential work of ACE Programs for the Homeless, honoring the sanitation crews who help keep Sunset Park clean and welcoming.
At a community gathering on 8th Avenue and 60th Street in Sunset Park on Monday, Zhuang joined business owners, Community Board 11 District Manager Marnee Elias-Pavia, local leaders and residents to thank the ACE team for their daily service.
Zhuang secured $250,000 to support ACE’s ongoing operations in the district, part of her wider push to tackle littering, improve street conditions and expand employment opportunities for New Yorkers rebuilding their lives after homelessness.
“ACE’s work shows that investing in people is the best way to build stronger neighborhoods,” said Zhuang. "These workers show up for our community every day. They take pride in their work and make 8th Avenue cleaner and safer for everyone."
Founded in 1992, ACE Programs for the Homeless has provided job training, work experience, and long-term support to hundreds of New Yorkers seeking stability.
In District 43, the group has become a key partner in Zhuang’s Clean Corridors initiative, working to enhance sanitation and neighborhood pride along busy commercial areas like 8th Avenue.
Workers recognized for their service included supervisors Brian Barnkow, Thane West, and Michael McKenzie, along with team members Dorian Bressley, Andres Davila, Tommy Chan, Ruvier Negron and Xavier Concepcion.
Their efforts, Zhuang noted, reflect the power of community investment, where dignity, hard work and opportunity come together to build a stronger Brooklyn.
