Housing Works Cannabis Co, one of the first recreational cannabis dispensaries to be awarded a CAURD license in the state of New York, is coming to Manhattan with a soft opening scheduled on Thursday, Dec. 29. The storefront located at 750 Broadway in the Astor Place neighborhood is operated by Housing Works, a nonprofit dedicated to advocacy and lifesaving services for tens of thousands of New Yorkers in need.
“This is a once in a lifetime moment,” said Sasha Nutgent, Store Manager of Housing Works Cannabis Co in a statement. “That said, our nonprofit’s mission remains as urgent as ever. We are eager to take the lead as a social equity model for America’s cannabis industry, specifically with our hiring practices and continued support of individuals and communities disproportionately impacted by the unjust War on Drugs.”
All proceeds from dispensary sales will be directed to parent organization Housing Works, Inc., founded in 1990 to address the dual crises of HIV/AIDS and homelessness. The self-sustaining nonprofit provides job opportunities, legal advocacy and comprehensive housing and health services funded, in part, by revenues from its thrift stores, SoHo bookstore and now its cannabis dispensary.
With a focus on compassion and dispelling stigmas, Housing Works endeavors to move the cannabis industry forward by supporting the practical needs of their community through an equity-driven and harm reduction approach.
“At our core, we’re a healing community dedicated to providing housing, healthcare and vocational programs for New Yorkers,” said Charles King, CEO of Housing Works. “This opportunity will not only give our team the resources to further our overall mission, but to feature and elevate products coming from LGBTQ+, BIPOC and women-led cannabis brands across the state.”
Spanning 4,400 square feet, the building where the dispensary will be, known as 1 Astor Place, was completed in 1883. Housing Works Cannabis Co will welcome patrons with an introductory shopping experience upon opening, with plans to carefully build out an expanded and thoughtfully curated space as cannabis products become more available.
“With its history of supporting New Yorkers, particularly formerly incarcerated individuals, we’re proud that Housing Works is seizing this opportunity to grow its resources and deliver more for New Yorkers,” said Chris Alexander, Executive Director for the Office of Cannabis Management. “When this store opens, consumers will have the opportunity to purchase tested, safer products grown by family farmers across New York State, reducing risk while supporting their communities.”
As part of its soft opening on Thursday, Dec. 29, Housing Works Cannabis Co will host a news conference at 10 a.m. with scheduled appearances by elected officials, ahead of opening to the public at 4:20 p.m.
Housing Works Cannabis Co, located at 750 Broadway in Manhattan, will be open seven days a week, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
