Governor Kathy Hochul announced on March 24 that $42 million has been awarded to seven community-based organizations to create 200 units of supportive housing across Brooklyn, the Bronx, Manhattan, and Queens. The funding is administered by the Office of Mental Health and will support scattered-site housing for individuals experiencing chronic homelessness enrolled in Housing First initiatives, including the Safe Options Support program.
The initiative aims to provide stable homes and mental health services for those facing homelessness, addressing both physical and behavioral health needs. Governor Hochul said, “Access to housing can enable New Yorkers to get off the streets and connect with needed mental health services. These additional units will allow individuals who may be staying in shelters or on the streets to maintain stable housing and address physical and behavioral health needs. Safe and stable housing for all New Yorkers remains a top priority for my administration.”
Dr. Ann Sullivan, Commissioner of the Office of Mental Health, said, “Attaining safe and stable housing is a key step in the road to recovery for individuals living with behavioral health issues. These units in New York City will support the Housing First model and help residents connect with critical services to help remain safe and stable in their community. Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, we are prioritizing investments into providing safe, affordable housing that enable New Yorkers to live and thrive in supportive neighborhood settings.”
The new funding will establish 40 units each in Queens, Manhattan, Brooklyn; plus 80 units in the Bronx through awards ranging from $3.1 million up to $8.3 million per organization or site. Eligible residents must be experiencing homelessness while enrolled in programs such as Safe Options Support or Intensive Mobile Treatment.
Housing First provides permanent homes without requiring shelter stays or program graduation beforehand—a model designed specifically for people facing chronic homelessness by first meeting basic needs before addressing other issues.
RuthAnne Visnauskas, Commissioner of Homes and Community Renewal said these resources are “an essential part of HCR’s goal to create and preserve affordable housing across New York.” State Senator Brian Kavanagh added that this investment “is a vital step toward ensuring that New Yorkers experiencing chronic homelessness have a place to call home.” Assemblymember Jo Anne Simon also highlighted how supportive housing gives access not only to shelter but also critical mental health care.