Summary:
NYC Comptroller Brad Lander unveiled a plan to end street and subway homelessness focusing on "housing first".
The plan, "Safer for All," aims to provide supportive housing and services to those with serious mental illness.
Lander criticized Mayor Adams' administration for ineffective coordination of care despite substantial funding.
Adams defended his administration's efforts and highlighted the challenges of helping those with severe mental illness.
Lander's plan emphasizes cross-agency collaboration, housing, and supportive care to break the cycle of homelessness.
NYC Comptroller's Plan to End Subway and Street Homelessness
<img src="https://www.amny.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/2218cc01-301e-4bc3-b0c8-7655243a25bc.jpeg?w=1200" alt="Homeless individuals sleeping on a subway train in New York">NYC Comptroller Brad Lander presented a comprehensive plan to combat homelessness and enhance subway safety, focusing on a "housing first" approach. The plan, titled “Safer for All,” aims to provide supportive housing and vital services to homeless individuals struggling with severe mental illness.
Addressing the Crisis
This initiative follows several high-profile violent crimes, including the tragic death of Debrina Kawam, who was burned alive on a subway. Lander's plan addresses the interconnected issues of homelessness, mental illness, and substance abuse.
<img src="https://www.amny.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/166208e3-f185-4673-bdb5-20f264cf1950.jpeg?w=1200" alt="City Comptroller Brad Lander announcing his plan">Lander vs. Adams: A Clash of Plans
Lander criticized Mayor Eric Adams's administration for failing to effectively coordinate care and utilize the billions spent on homelessness initiatives. Adams countered, highlighting a $650 million investment and emphasizing the challenges of providing care to individuals with severe mental illness who may refuse help.
Key Elements of Lander's Plan
Lander's plan promotes cross-agency collaboration, expanding options for both voluntary and mandated treatment. Drawing parallels to the successful veteran homelessness program, the plan prioritizes housing, along with supportive care, and aims to address the cycle of homelessness among mentally ill individuals moving between subways, streets, hospitals, and jails. The plan also emphasizes the use of SRO units, vouchers, and service dollars to provide comprehensive support.
The Goal: Safer Subways and Streets
Ultimately, Lander believes his plan will not only alleviate street homelessness but also significantly improve subway safety and restore rider confidence by addressing the root causes of insecurity.
Comments
Join Our Community
Create an account to share your thoughts, engage with others, and be part of our growing community.