RESOURCES & ADVOCACY
Supporting Our Neighbors in Need
If you encounter someone who is unhoused and in need of support, know that there are compassionate resources and services available to help them navigate a challenging system. This page offers guidance and resources that reflect our shared commitment to dignity and care for everyone in our community.
Immediate Ways to Help
Be Present and Listen – Sometimes, the most immediate and meaningful help you can give is simply acknowledging the person and listening. A warm greeting or a respectful offer of assistance shows kindness and builds trust.
Share Resources – Many organizations offer assistance, and sharing this information can be life-changing. Here are some that focus on long-term solutions and individual support:
Coalition for the Homeless – Provides meals, emergency shelter, crisis services, and advocacy. They can also help connect individuals to job programs and long-term housing solutions.
VOCAL-NY – A grassroots organization focused on empowering those impacted by homelessness, substance use, and the criminal justice system. They advocate for real solutions to homelessness through public policy and direct support. They also have a drop-in center in Gowanus that can provide safe showers & bathrooms, laundry services, and care coordination.
Street Health Outreach & Wellness (SHOW) by NYC Health + Hospitals – Mobile units that provide immediate care, including showers, meals, medical assistance, and counseling. SHOW vans rotate through various neighborhoods in NYC.
Breaking Ground – Specializes in finding stable housing for the unhoused, with services focused on safe transitional and permanent housing options.
City Relief – Provides support at several outdoor locations with meals, health services, clothing, and connections to shelters and housing programs.
You can also take a look at NYPL’s guide for formerly incarcerated people. There are a lot of amazing resources compiled.
Thoughtful Actions for Community Change
Homelessness is a community issue that requires collective care and systemic change. By supporting shelters, housing programs, and advocating for policies that address root causes, we can build a community where everyone has a safe place to call home. New Yorkers looking to reduce homelessness in their city can support policies and initiatives aimed at expanding affordable housing, improving tenant protections, and increasing support services for those facing housing instability. Some progressive housing solutions and bills that can help include:
Social Housing Legislation – Proposals for social housing in New York would create publicly-owned housing developments that prioritize affordability and long-term community value. These types of developments provide affordable options for low-income and working-class residents.
Housing Access Voucher Program (HAVP) – This program provides rental assistance to low-income individuals and families who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. Similar to federal Section 8 vouchers, it helps people afford housing on the private market.
Right to Counsel – Expanding the right to free legal representation for all tenants facing eviction has been shown to significantly reduce homelessness by helping tenants fight wrongful evictions and negotiate affordable terms.
Increased Funding for Supportive Housing – Supportive housing combines affordable housing with on-site social services, tailored for people who have experienced homelessness, have disabilities, or require mental health support. Increased investment in supportive housing can provide lasting stability.
Repurposing Vacant Properties – Policies that encourage or require owners of vacant residential and commercial properties to convert these into affordable housing can help address housing shortages and reduce homelessness.
You can find more information and platforms by also looking at homeless, tenant’s rights, and housing advocacy groups. You can reach a few of their platforms here.