FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Buffalo, NY – Assemblymember Jon D. Rivera today joined representatives from Jericho Road Community Health Center and community partners to celebrate the unveiling of a brand-new playground at Vive Shelter, a program of Jericho Road that provides temporary housing for refugee claimants waiting for appointments or interviews with the Canada Border Services Agency and asylum seekers wishing to apply for U.S. asylum.
The new playground, made possible through an investment of $250,000, will provide children and families living at Vive with a safe and welcoming space to play, heal, and connect as they begin building their new lives in Western New York.
This investment builds upon Assemblymember Rivera’s longstanding commitment to supporting New Americans and the organizations that serve them.
Last year, he partnered with Operation Warm and Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield to provide the funding necessary to deliver 200 winter coats to newly arrived refugee families. Additionally, he fought to increase funding for the New York State Services to Refugees Program (NYSESRP), joining representatives from statewide refugee agencies in Albany to call for the inclusion of $15 million in the 2025–26 state budget to strengthen services for refugee resettlement across New York.
The importance of this new playground extends well beyond recreation. Studies have shown that refugee children benefit deeply from play spaces, which are crucial for mental and physical recovery from trauma and displacement. Safe play environments help children cope with stress, develop social and emotional skills, and restore a sense of normalcy and belonging.
Research also indicates that child-friendly and social spaces play a key role in helping displaced children reconnect with themselves and one another.
A research review conducted by the National Institute of Health found that “the design of refugee facilities and surrounding environments should provide better access to formal, informal and safe spaces for children’s play.”
Assemblymember Jon D. Rivera said, “Play is not a luxury, it’s an essential part of a child’s recovery and growth. This new playground will give children at Vive a space to feel safe, to be creative, and to simply be kids again. I’m proud to continue supporting Jericho Road’s incredible work to make Buffalo a place of hope and healing for families rebuilding their lives.”
Dr. Allana Krolikowski, Chief Executive Officer of Jericho Road Community Health Center said, “This playground represents more than just a place to play—it’s a symbol of hope, healing, and belonging. Every moment of play is an investment in the future of Buffalo, where families can begin to recover from trauma and build new lives rooted in safety and community. We’re so grateful for Assemblymember Rivera’s continued support for our newest neighbors and this beautiful space that will undoubtedly bring so much joy.”
Contact Information:
Ethan Powers
Powerse@nyassembly.gov
Cell: 716-400-3559
