Catholic Homes of New York, also known as Catholic Homes, is an agency of Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of New York dedicated to providing affordable housing solutions focused on community well-being and sustainability. The organization uniquely integrates housing with social services, ensuring residents have a home and access to resources that improve their lives. Additionally, we have the enormous benefit of working with Catholic Charities-affiliated agencies and programs that have been on the front lines of preventing homelessness and assisting vulnerable homeless people for centuries. Organizations such as Catholic Charities Community Services (CCCS) and its Beacon of Hope program, Archcare and Nazareth Housing are partners with Catholic Homes as operators of supportive housing.
Homelessness in New York has reached the highest levels since the 1930s. Since January 2022, the homeless population has increased nearly 90%, with more than 90,000 people, including 32,689 children, in shelters so far. runs until October 2023. The number of single and homeless adults has more than doubled in the last decade, highlighting the severe lack of affordable housing.
New York offers several programs for homeless people, including shelter services, rental assistance and access to housing subsidies such as Section 8, and supportive housing initiatives. These programs can be accessed through the New York City Department of Homeless Services, the State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, online resources, and local social services offices.
Catholic Homes is expanding its portfolio of supportive housing services, increasing units for formerly homeless people from 6% to 31%. This is in line with state and municipal policies, focusing on specific needs and significantly contributing to addressing the homeless crisis.
The expansion of supportive housing has had a positive impact on homeless people, providing them with stable housing and services for mental health, drug and addiction issues, and employment. These initiatives have effectively reduced relapse into homelessness and improved overall well-being.
Catholic Homes and CCCS collaborate to offer specialized services and support to tenants of the Second Farms housing project in the Bronx and other residential complexes in New York City. CCCS provides services that soothe and empower its residents and the community at large. Together, the two agencies share the mission of providing on-site housing support services that go beyond the city-funded programs that Hogares Católicos directly subsidizes. CCCS comprehensive case management is available to all tenants. Their combined efforts foster a sense of community by building relationships with all parties involved and facilitating recreation, socializing, holiday celebrations, and recruiting volunteers, all with the goal of bringing relief and empowering the people they care about. that serve.
Catholic Homes’ integration of housing and supportive services has led to successful results, especially in buildings with a significant portion of formerly homeless residents. Challenges in buildings with less comprehensive services indicate the need to increase funding to improve support.
Financing challenges span the federal, state and city levels, including the need for more low-income housing tax credits and increased loan subsidies. Addressing rising construction costs and operating expenses requires more robust housing subsidies and tenant voucher programs.
The expansion of initiatives like Catholic Homes requires increased funding, public support, and streamlined processes for establishing supportive housing. Long-term solutions also demand community engagement, promoting affordable housing, and increasing public awareness about homelessness.
Russell Lang, president and CEO of Hogares Católicos/Catholic Homes of New York
2024-01-28 16:49:24
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