Our History
The Community Service Society of New York (CSS) was formed in 1939 by the merger of two venerable social service agencies: The New York Association for the Improvement of the Condition of the Poor (founded in 1843) and the Charity Organization Society (founded in 1882). CSS is one of the nation's first and most impactful charitable organizations. Since our founding, we've helped generations of New Yorkers live in safe, affordable housing; pioneered the social work and public health fields; and championed America’s first public social welfare programs, including the forerunner to Social Security. Our track record of innovation and our commitment to equity continues to this day.
A Legacy of Hope
Our long history in the fight against poverty has been marked by significant achievements: serving as the catalyst for the city’s first tenement housing laws; creating a prototype for the nation’s free school lunch program; and advancing New York State’s old age assistance program, an important forerunner to Social Security.
A Tradition of Innovation
Throughout our history, we’ve brought evidence-based, innovative approaches to tackling the toughest issues of the day: inequity in our health care system; a lack of affordable housing; and a wage gap that leaves working families without the means to build a secure economic future.
We continue to make remarkable progress, thanks in large part to the support of a vast network of partners, contributors, and volunteers.
A More Equitable City
With your help, we’ll continue to make strides toward a stronger, more equitable New York.
Looking for a fresh angle on New York City? Click here to discover more fascinating people, places, and landmarks that CSS put on the map.