“I need the next mayor to Focus on issues regarding homelessness and HRA policies. Currently, we have a system where families are being either forced to live with relatives/friends in cramped or volatile conditions, or to ultimately live on the streets. DHS only defines clients as being homeless if they fall under the following categories: victims of domestic violence, child abuse, hurricane sandy or eviction. Subsequently, many families who are really homeless for other reasons are often turned away. Meanwhile, clients are often told that an ACS case will be opened if it is found that the client is in fact living on the streets. DHS/HRA is willing to spend thousands of dollars per month to house families in a shelter and pay for storage fees. These agencies are willing to even pay for a family to move to another city, state or country with relatives. However, they have not implemented any programs or more affordable housing for families which would help them achieve independent living and stability. DHS/HRA is still using antiquated policies that are geared for specific issues. So where does that leave the other families who desperately need help?”
“I am a single mother raising a 3 yr old daughter in the shelter system. I became homeless after being diagnosed with a debilitating illness. I was not able to work because I was hospitalized approximately 8 times. Therefore I was not able to keep up with rent payments, etc. I entered into the shelter system in May 2013 because I had no other resources and needed help. Instead, I got the run around for approx.. 2 months being abruptly moved 4-5 times in different shelters. With help I was finally found eligible and I have been placed in a shelter in Harlem. However, prior to this, I endured the worst living conditions, such as rodent, vermin and insect infestations, growing mold and safety issues.”