Direct Mail Appeal for Tenement Museum

The Tenement Museum serves to bring to life the struggles, hopes, and experiences of generations of new immigrants to America over a century ago. A National historic site, the Museum’s two buildings on Orchard Street in Manhattan, were home to around 15,000 people from over 20 nations between 1863 and 2011. They were transformed into a museum that year with a mission to promote tolerance and a greater historical understanding of the immigrants who lived there between 1869 and the 1980s.

However, when our mission is more important than ever, we risk closing due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Our president, Annie Polland, says, “At a time when issues surrounding migrants, refugees and immigration have taken center stage, the Tenement Museum is a potent reminder that, as a nation shaped by immigration, our brightest hope for the future lies in the lessons of the past.” Yet, this bright future can only be achieved with your help. Your contribution will keep our doors open to visitors from around the world looking to place themselves in the shoes, or in this case, the apartments of immigrants from Russia, China, Germany, Ireland, Eastern Europe, Italy, and more.

To express our appreciation, those who donate more than $100 will receive a 20% discount on admission through the end of 2022. Those who donate between $50 and $100 will receive a 10% discount. Further, anyone who donates any amount will be invited to experience our latest and most remarkable exhibition yet. “Under One Roof” explores the lives of a Holocaust refugee family, a Puerto Rican migrant family, and a Chinese immigrant family, all who lived in the building at a point in time. Any contribution you are willing to give is appreciated and will help us stay open and continue spreading inclusivity and understanding.

As a previous visitor or contributor, we want to thank you for your ongoing support of our Museum and our mission. If you are not already, we would like to invite you to become a member of our museum family to enjoy exclusive benefits like member-only days, merchandise discounts, and special virtual and in-person events. To donate, please mail back cash or a check using the attached instructions and the included envelope or go to www.tenement.org/donate/. On behalf of the Tenement Museum, thank you for helping us ensure our Museum stays open and our mission stays alive.