NYC Nonprofits Demand Urgent Action to Protect Vulnerable New Yorkers

With the incoming administration anticipated to enact sweeping policy changes, a coalition of New York nonprofits is pushing for immediate legislative action to safeguard the city's most vulnerable populations, including migrants and the homeless. Their initiative, Project Hope, outlines crucial steps for city and state governments to mitigate the impact of potential budget cuts to homeless services and a rise in deportations.

Concerns Center Around:

• Increased Deportations: The nonprofits fear increased immigration enforcement, particularly targeting intake centers for undocumented individuals.
• Shelter Limits: They urge the repeal of the 30- and 60-day shelter limits for newly arrived asylum seekers and migrants.
• Funding Cuts: The groups are calling for expanded funding for housing vouchers, highlighting the critical role these vouchers play in supporting individuals facing homelessness, as illustrated by the story of Rhonda Jackson, a former 9/11 responder who now relies on such a program.

Key Players' Statements:

• Christine Quinn (Win President and CEO): Emphasizes the need for New York to become a full sanctuary state.
• Lisa Rivera (NYLAG President and CEO): Notes the stepped-up enforcement within immigration courts.
• NYC Mayor Eric Adams: While acknowledging the need to protect people, he stressed that serious criminals should not be allowed to remain in the country.
• Gov. Kathy Hochul: Stated her support for providing asylum seekers with due process, while also emphasizing the need to remove those who commit crimes.

The nonprofits plan to meet with state and city lawmakers in the coming weeks to push for the implementation of Project Hope’s recommendations. Their call for immediate action underscores the urgency of the situation and the potential ramifications for vulnerable New Yorkers.