Buffalo, NY – Today, Assemblymember Jon D. Rivera 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 petitioners 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 a $250,000 grant, 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, Rivera partnered with Operation Warm and Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield to provide the funding necessary to deliver 200 winter coats to newly arrived refugee children. Additionally, he has been champion fighting to increase funding for the New York State Services to Refugees Program (NYSESRP), joining representatives from statewide refugee agencies in Albany to secure $7 million in the 2025–2026 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 (Built-environment attributes associated with refugee children’s physical activity: a narrative review and research agenda - PMC) 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, CEO 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.”

State Senator Sean Ryan said, “Jericho Road’s mission represents Buffalo at its best: a welcoming city where we look out for our neighbors. This new playground at Vive isn’t just about play; it’s about giving families a sense of belonging from their very first days as part of our community. I commend Jericho Road for the important work they do, and Assemblymember Rivera for helping bring this project to life.”

Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes said, “The City of Buffalo is the ‘City of Good Neighbors,’ and that applies to whether you grew up here, moved from another part of the state, or moved from another country. We’ve got your back. I am so proud of the work being done by Vive and Jericho Road to help our friends seeking a new life in a new country and glad to see this money put to good use.”

“When a child has a place to play, they have a chance to feel whole again,” said Erie County Legislator Lawrence Dupre. “This new playground at Vive is an investment in healing, joy, and community for families who’ve already endured so much. Through this project, Assemblymember Rivera and Jericho Road have made their commitment to our newest neighbors unmistakably clear. I am proud to be part of a community that creates spaces where every child feels safe, seen, and welcomed. Buffalo is stronger when we lead with compassion and build with care.”

Lucas Pruch, Parkitects Western New York Regional Manager said, “We at Parkitects believe every child deserves an amazing place to play, and every community deserves a partner who makes the journey of creating a play space enjoyable. We are excited to be working with Jericho Road’s Vive Shelter to give so many kids a fun, safe place to experience the simple joys of being a kid.”