Prospect Hospital facts for kids

Prospect Hospital was a private hospital in The Bronx, New York. It had 175 beds and was seven stories tall. The hospital opened in 1963 at 730 Kelly Street. It closed its doors in 1985. Today, the building serves as a shelter for families.

History of Prospect Hospital

Prospect Hospital was built by Dr. Jacob B. Freedman. He was born in the local area. The hospital opened in 1963. It was a very important part of the Longwood neighborhood. This area is in the South Bronx. It is now known as the Longwood Historic District.

The hospital owned 15 other buildings. These buildings were used for different community programs. After the hospital closed, a group of doctors tried to reopen it. However, their efforts were not successful.

From Hospital to Family Inn

The building was later bought to be used as "family inns." These are places where families can stay if they do not have a home. This was seen as a better option than older "welfare hotels." The old hotels often had small and uncomfortable rooms.

The building at 730 Kelly Street was renamed Prospect Family Inn. Part of this building is now the Prospect Family Nursery. This nursery is a special place for children. It has two rooms and is open all the time. Parents who are going through a tough time can leave their children there. Kids can stay for up to 72 hours.

There was also an earlier medical center. This center was connected to Prospect Hospital's history. It had been around since 1919.