A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie Surprises Bronx Teens with Private Dinner at Sei Less
A Night to Remember
A group of 50 teens from the Bronx and Brooklyn, who have an incarcerated family member, were treated to a special dinner at the Manhattan restaurant Sei Less. The private dining experience was made possible by the restaurant’s owner, Dara Mirjahangiry, who has a history of giving back to the community.
A Surprise Guest
As the teens finished eating, they were in for another surprise – a visit from Bronx-born rapper A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie. The 14-year-old Melany Vargas, who lives in Mt. Hope, was thrilled to see the rapper, who has been a fan of since third grade. "That’s my man," she exclaimed.
A Bond Beyond Bars
The dinner was part of an initiative called Bond Beyond Bars, which aims to maintain strong connections between youth and their incarcerated family members. The program, run by Children of Promise, offers virtual visits, letter writing, and in-person meetings to help keep the bonds strong.
A Meaningful Experience
For the teens, the evening was a chance to connect with each other and feel seen. "Coming to Manhattan for many of our scholars is uncharted territory," said Sharon Content, CEO and founder of Children of Promise. "It’s valued on another level when mom or dad is incarcerated."
A Rapper’s Perspective
A Boogie, who grew up in Highbridge and attended Dewitt Clinton High School, was grateful to be a part of the event. "It’s good being a part of the whole movement," he said. "I often dine at Sei Less and I’m thankful to the owner for connecting me with the organization."
Conclusion
The evening was a testament to the power of community and the importance of building strong relationships. For the youth, it was a chance to feel seen, heard, and valued. As the initiative continues, we can only hope that it will bring about positive change and a brighter future for those affected by incarceration.
FAQs
- What is Bond Beyond Bars?
- Bond Beyond Bars is an initiative by Children of Promise to maintain strong connections between youth and their incarcerated family members.
- What does the initiative entail?
- The initiative offers virtual visits, letter writing, and in-person meetings to help keep the bonds strong.
- How can I get involved?
- For more information, visit the Children of Promise website at cpnyc.org.
