City & State NY: Safe and stable housing: the most critical need facing unsheltered New Yorkers
In the last two years, more than 80 individuals experiencing chronic homelessness in New York City—many with untreated mental health needs—have successfully transitioned from living in public spaces directly into an apartment of their own through Street to Home, a pilot program launched by Volunteers of America-Greater New York (VOA-GNY) in partnership with the City of New York. Housing First programs like Street to Home prioritize safe and stable housing for individuals experiencing homelessness. After that most critical need is addressed, individuals can then focus on improving their physical and mental health, obtaining treatment for substance use disorders, or seeking employment.