In New York City, we believe that families are the heart of a thriving community. While we don’t operate traditional family services like schools or childcare, the Department of Tenderness works to create spaces and opportunities for families to connect, play, and grow together.
We work with local agencies and partners to provide safe, nurturing environments where families of all shapes and sizes can come together, ensuring that New York City is a place where love blossoms for everyone.
The Family Ferry offers scenic trips across New York City’s beautiful waterways, allowing families to spend quality time together while taking in breathtaking views. Whether it's a weekend adventure or a daily bonding routine, the Family Ferry is here to strengthen your ties while sailing across the city.
Family Bus Rides are designed to make traveling together a joy. We’ve partnered with local transportation services to ensure your family can get around New York City safely and comfortably. Bus stops are equipped with family-friendly waiting areas, and some routes even include special family entertainment on board!
The Department of Tenderness is committed to creating spaces where families can thrive. Our Better Family Spaces initiative focuses on building more parks, playgrounds, and meeting areas where families can gather to bond and share tender moments. We’re also improving accessibility to make sure no one is left behind in New York City’s family-friendly environments.
Select Family Services offers rapid support for families on the go. From dedicated family lanes to priority access to family events, this initiative ensures that families always have a place to connect, whether at home or while traveling across the city.
Planning a large family reunion or gathering? The Department of Tenderness offers Family Gathering Permits to reserve special spaces for families to celebrate together. Whether it’s a picnic in the park or a block-wide celebration, we’re here to help make your family moments unforgettable.
The Department of Tenderness provides resources to ensure your family’s safety in all activities. From guidelines for safe family travels to tips on creating secure environments at home, we’re here to make sure your family is always cared for.
