Anyone who is a single father living in New York City tells you how difficult it is for him to balance work, family, and other personal responsibilities as a single breadwinner. I know the feeling well and believe me; in some instances, it feels like the world has become too much to bear. But there is the flip side, and that is that you are not alone, there are amazing resources, and support groups out there meant for those like us. For first-time dads or dads who are already well-seasoned, it is crucial to find a group that fits perfectly for you. Here is my list of the Top Parenting Support Groups for Single Fathers in NYC which allowed me to improve the situation, feel more in control, and finally find like-minded people.
1. Fatherhood Initiative by the NYC Department of Youth & Community Development (DYCD)
If you’re a single dad in NYC looking for a comprehensive support system, the Fatherhood Initiative by the NYC Department of Youth & Community Development is a must. Since 2002, this program has been helping fathers, like us, reconnect with our kids while improving parenting skills. I personally know several dads who’ve benefited from this. They offer a range of services that I found really useful, such as:
- Individual and family counseling (something I found super helpful in managing the stress of balancing everything)
- Child support and visitation assistance (trust me, this can save you a ton of time and confusion)
- Mediation and conflict resolution training (perfect for those tricky co-parenting situations)
- Father-to-father mentoring (I love the idea of learning from someone who's been there)
For me, this was a game-changer in strengthening my relationship with my kids, and I highly recommend checking it out.
2. NYC Dads Group
Okay, let’s talk about the NYC Dads Group, which is a fantastic single dad support group in NYC. This group is diverse and filled with fathers from all over the NYC metro area, including Jersey City, Westchester, and Long Island. I’ve personally attended a few meetups, and it’s been awesome. From playgroups for the kids to workshops and social activities, this group really does a great job of fostering a sense of community. I’ve had some great conversations with fellow dads about balancing work and fatherhood—it’s like a breath of fresh air to be around people who get it.
Whether you're in search of advice or just some solid dad time, NYC Dads Meetup offers a variety of events that are worth looking into.
3. HRP Papas
If you're in Lower Manhattan like me, HRP Papas could be the perfect fit. Associated with the Hudson River Park Mothers Group, this is a dedicated single dad support group NYC near me. I’ve met some amazing dads through this group, and it’s been so valuable to have a network of men who understand the challenges of raising kids. They host:
- Networking opportunities (I've made some great friends through these events)
- Parenting workshops (where I’ve picked up tons of tips)
- Meet-ups to hang out and chat about fatherhood (it’s always nice to just talk shop with someone who knows the struggle)
For me, HRP Papas has been like a second family—truly a wonderful resource for any dad in the area.
4. Brooklyn Stroll Club
So, this one is for all you new dads in Brooklyn and beyond. The Brooklyn Stroll Club started in 2024, and let me tell you, it’s been amazing. It’s a grassroots effort organized by Joe Gonzales, a new dad himself, who wanted to create a space for other dads to feel supported. I was lucky enough to attend one of their early meetups in McCarren Park, and it was incredible to see so many dads, all from different walks of life, bonding over shared experiences.
If you’re looking for a best single dad support group NYC, this could definitely be it. Joe’s efforts to make a space for new fathers to come together and talk have made all the difference in my experience as a single dad. I’m excited to see where this group goes in the future.
5. Single Fathers’ Program
The Single Fathers’ Program is another resource I turned to when I needed more focused support. It’s geared towards custodial fathers, non-custodial fathers, and grandfathers with children under 18. The weekly group sessions cover everything from family management issues to improving relationships with our kids and co-parents. I’ve learned so much about managing family dynamics, and it's been so reassuring to share experiences with other dads who are going through similar struggles.
This program provides a space for open dialogue and offers solutions to the challenges we face, which has been incredibly helpful.
6. New York Single Parents Facebook Group
For those who love the convenience of online communities, the New York Single Parents Facebook Group is a must-join. It’s an active group with members from all over NYC, and it's filled with single dads like myself. Through this group, I've been able to connect with other dads, share advice, and find out about local events and resources. It’s nice to have that kind of emotional support right at your fingertips.
Joining this group has been a lifesaver for me. From parenting tips to general life advice, I’ve found it to be a reliable source of information and support.
And that's it there—just some of the very best single dad support groups in New York City, which have made a difference to me in going through the twists and turns of single parenthood. There are several options available, including online groups like the Single Dads Support Group near me on Facebook and in-person get-togethers like the City Dads Group. You should look into these groups, and don't be afraid to join and contribute. It can be the lift you need for a strong support network.
You are not alone if you are a new father or are simply trying to get by. Let us continue to move forward as a team!
