smallwater is a grassroots disaster relief initiative based in the Rockaways. Formed by first responders in the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, the initiative is led by Rockaway residents who are deeply invested in rebuilding a sustainable Rockaway community. smallwater served as a pivotal disaster relief center in the wake of Hurricane Sandy, providing services, supplies, and to coordinating action.

As the needs in Rockaway have shifted, smallwater has moved to provide long-term services by transforming the relief center into an active community center. Services at the center have included a weekly farmer's market, beach clean-ups, yoga, and educational events. Currently, the programs at the Center are acupuncture, Arts in Parts art education, EMDR, and cooking classes. The Center is now initiating a transformation of its outdoor space from a vacant lot to a garden including apple trees, vegetable plant boxes, and a chicken coop. The Garden will provide a space where local vendors and community members can host events, gatherings, and workshops.

We need your help to transform our vacant lot into the educational Garden and multi-use space that we imagine.