New York, often known as a city of opportunity, is also known for its progressive efforts in meeting the housing needs of its varied population, including those requiring supportive housing. Supportive housing refers to an affordable renting solution that offers various on-site support services tailored to help individuals and families who have experienced homelessness, struggling with serious health issues, mental health, or substance use issues. These services may include healthcare, counseling, employment assistance, and others. Here's a closer look at some of the supportive housing options in New York.
New York/New York Agreements
Some of the most prominent supportive housing initiatives in New York are established under the "New York/New York" agreements. These are a series of joint commitment between New York City and New York State to create and maintain thousands of units of supportive housing. Since being established in 1990, there have been III agreements under the "New York/New York" banner that have echo the commitment to produce over 15,000 supportive housing units in the city.
Permanent Supportive Housing Program
New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) also operates the Homeless Housing and Assistance Program (HHAP). Since 1983, HHAP has provided capital grants and loans to not-for-profit corporations, charitable organizations, and municipalities to acquire, construct, or rehabilitate housing for those who are homeless and are unable to secure adequate housing without special assistance.
Federal Programs
Several federal programs are also in place that provide supportive housing services in New York. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) operates several programs designed to assist with housing needs. This includes the Continuum of Care Program, which is designed to promote communitywide commitment to ending homelessness.
HUD also operates the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program which provides rental assistance to eligible families and individuals, some of which are also supportive housing units. The objective of the Section 8 program is to bridge the gap between the rental amount landlords want for their housing units and what low-income households can afford.
Non-profit Organizations
A multitude of non-profit organizations operates in New York that provides supportive housing services, often in conjunction with federal or state financing. Groups such as the Supportive Housing Network of New York provide an organized center of resources for supportive housing providers, advocating for continued funding for these essential services.
State Subsidies
Added to the mix is the Empire State Supportive Housing Initiative (ESSHI), an initiative intended to fund supportive housing services within housing projects developed and operated by developers throughout the state. ESSHI provides service and operating funds to various awardees that serve individuals with special needs.
City Programs
Lastly, the New York City Department of Homeless Services (DHS) also oversees a number of supportive housing programs specifically designed for New York residents, including the Adult Families with Children, and the Senior Affordable Rental Apartments (SARA) Program for seniors.
In summary, New York City has an extensive range of supportive housing options, provided at various levels ranging from federal to state to city programs, and implemented by a host of non-profit and community organizations. While these programs provide a vital service, it's important to understand that the demand for supportive housing often exceeds the resources available.
