Cost
Free - No cost to families
Eldridge Street
Free COMPASS Elementary afterschool and summer camp program for K-5 students on the Lower East Side, Manhattan
University Settlement at 175 Eldridge Street offers both afterschool and summer camp programming for elementary school students on the Lower East Side of Manhattan. Operated by University Settlement Society of New York—the nation’s first settlement house—this free COMPASS Elementary program uses a hands-on, project-based approach to ensure youth experience learning in engaging and fun ways.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 175 Eldridge Street, New York, NY 10002 |
| Borough | Manhattan (Lower East Side) |
| Provider | University Settlement Society of New York |
| Website | universitysettlement.org |
| Phone | (212) 453-4500 |
| info@universitysettlement.org |
Age Range
Ages 5-11 (Grades K-5)
Program Type
COMPASS Elementary
Category
Youth Development
- After-School Program - Year-round programming during the school year
- Summer Camp - Full summer programming with enrichment activities
- Project-Based Learning - Hands-on educational activities
- Academic Support - Homework help and tutoring
- Enrichment Activities - Arts, recreation, and creative programming
University Settlement Society of New York was established in 1886 as the first settlement house in the United States. For nearly 140 years, the organization has partnered with New Yorkers in Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn to build community strength and fight poverty and systemic inequality.
- 40,000+ New Yorkers served annually
- 30+ program locations across Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn
- Founded 1886 - Nearly 140 years of service
- One of the most respected nonprofit organizations in NYC
University Settlement brings the values of the settlement house movement into the 21st century:
- Meeting New Yorkers where they live
- Listening deeply to all perspectives
- Creating space for responsive cooperation
- Infusing civic engagement and equality into all programs
Beyond youth programming, University Settlement offers:
- Early Childhood Education - Birth to pre-K
- Mental Health & Wellness - Accessible, affordable care
- Older Adults Programs - Services for seniors 60+
- Housing Services - Tenant support and advocacy
- Adult English Classes - Free ESOL programs
- Community Centers - Gathering spaces for all ages
- Arts Programs - Creative expression opportunities
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Contact University Settlement Call (212) 453-4500 or visit universitysettlement.org.
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Inquire about the 175 Eldridge Street program Ask specifically about afterschool or summer camp enrollment.
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Complete registration forms Fill out required paperwork for your child.
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Submit documentation Provide necessary documents for program eligibility.
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Attend orientation Learn about program schedules, rules, and expectations.
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Start the program Begin attending afterschool or summer camp activities.
Directoryenrollment-packet/
- Student enrollment form
- Emergency contact information
- Medical/health information
- Immunization records
- Photo release consent
- Program participation agreement
The Lower East Side has excellent transit access:
- Subway: Delancey Street-Essex Street (F, J, M, Z trains) - 0.3 miles
- Subway: Grand Street (B, D trains) - 0.3 miles
- Subway: 2nd Avenue (F train) - 0.4 miles
- Bus: M9, M14A, M14D, M15 routes
Sara D. Roosevelt Park
Linear park with playgrounds and sports facilities (0.1 miles)
Seward Park Library
New York Public Library branch at 192 E Broadway
7th Precinct
NYPD precinct at 19 1/2 Pitt Street
FDNY Engine 15
Fire station at 269 Henry Street
- Essex Market - Delancey Street (famous food hall)
- East Side Kosher Deli - Various locations
- Trader Joe’s - 436 E 14th Street (0.8 miles)
- Local bodegas - Throughout the Lower East Side
The Lower East Side has a rich history as a gateway neighborhood for immigrant communities. University Settlement has been embedded in this community since 1886, providing services to generations of families. The neighborhood today is a vibrant mix of historic tenements, new development, and diverse cultural influences.
University Settlement’s headquarters is located at 184 Eldridge Street, just steps away from the 175 Eldridge Street program site. The headquarters includes:
- Speyer Hall (event space)
- Gymnasium
- Early Childhood Center
- Administrative offices
Last Updated: November 25, 2025