Heart of the City Neighborhoods, Inc. is a not-for-profit corporation dedicated to creating programs that improve the quality of residential housing and developing sustainable projects to support Buffalo.

We Need You! Join the HOCN Board

For over 25 years, HOCN has been building equity through safe, affordable housing in Buffalo’s core neighborhoods — and we’re just getting started. Now we’re looking for leaders like YOU to help us expand our reach, secure more flexible funding, and support even more families.

Funding for Commercial Property Owners on Buffalo’s East Side

Through New York State’s East Side Building Fund you could be eligible to receive a grant for qualifying expenses to repair, renovate and improve the inside and outside of your commercial building. The East Side Building Fund is a $10 million joint, consolidated fund that aims to assist in the community-driven revitalization of mixed-use neighborhood …

2024 Impact Report: the Year in Review

What a Year! This year has been filled with achievements that highlight our commitment to providing affordable housing while working closely with residents and local organizations to make an impact in the community. With almost 2 million in state and local support, HOCN assisted 81 families across Buffalo with essential home repairs, improving living conditions …

Available Unit at Cynthia Gardens Apartments

As of October 21st, 2024, Heart of the City Neighborhoods is accepting applications for a vacant, affordable rental apartment at Cynthia Gardens Apartments. This is a two-bedroom handicapped-adaptable apartment (2-3 person capacity located at 294 Hudson Street. The units come complete with spacious bedrooms, plenty of windows for natural lighting, central air, a private porch …

Introducing HOCN's New Logo!

A Message from Our Executive Director, Stephanie Simeon Guess who is no longer one of Buffalo’s best kept secrets? I’ll give you a hint… their name is linked to one of the body’s most vital organs? Yep, you guessed right- Heart of the City Neighborhoods. Over the past 24 months, Heart of the City has …

Clean Mobility Neighborhood Leadership Group

Clean Mobility refers to using transportation systems and vehicles that produce little to no harmful emissions and have a minimal environmental impact. The project incorporates unique and innovative investments in the East Side of Buffalo to address important needs, collaborate with additional investment opportunities, and co-create a creative, inclusive, and comprehensive strategy for clean mobility …