NYCHA developments get $3 million for free arts programs.

NEW YORK (PIX11) -- Local artists and residents will be paid to lead art programs for public housing residents all across New York City.

The artists will appear on PIX11's "Monica Makes it Happen Show" on Monday, Aug. 26.

The new program is called From Roots to Arts. NYCHA residents get free arts programs due to a $3 million grant from the Mellon Foundation and thanks to the Public Housing Community Fund.

A 20-month art program will launch in NYCHA community centers in all five boroughs. The program hires five artists to bring the love of art to neighborhoods across New York City.

From Bushwick Houses, Crystal Clarity is an artist who for 15 years brought community mural projects to her NYCHA development. She launched Medicine Walls.

From Richmond Terrace, Tina Thompson-Pope is an artist and accomplished dancer, trained at renowned schools including Alvin Ailey, Martha Graham, Dance Theatre of Harlem and The Juilliard School. Thompson-Pope is currently the executive director of Skin Dance Company.

From the Astoria Houses, Tamra Cosby, also known as “Mama Cosby,” is a 26-year-old published poet from south side Jamaica, Queens.

From the Bronx River Houses, Dominique Robinson is a distinguished American dancer, choreographer, and producer.

And from the King Towers, Corey Harrison said his passion is using art to promote conservation and nature.