How To Access Emergency Shelter in NYC

Despite New York City being known for its glitz, glamour, and bright lights, it can be a difficult place to live at times. For those dealing with poverty and homelessness, having a safe and secure place to stay is just one of many major concerns. Fortunately, there are a number of organizations and communities throughout the city providing emergency shelter services. Here’s what you need to know about accessing emergency shelter in NYC.

What Is Emergency Shelter?

Emergency shelter is temporary housing offered to those who do not have a safe place to stay. It can consist of a variety of safe and secure locations, including shelters, transitional housing, supportive housing and other local services.

Where to Find Available Emergency Shelters

When looking for an emergency shelter in NYC, there are a few places you can look to find a safe and secure place.

1. City Shelters: The New York City Department of Homeless Services (DHS) has a number of shelters available for those in need. The shelters are staffed 24/7 and offer a range of services, including basic accommodations and access to meals, medical care, and social services such as mental health counseling. You can find a list of shelters on the DHS website or by contacting 311.

2. Nonprofit Shelters: There are also numerous community-based shelters across the city run by nonprofits. These shelters offer everything from basic accommodations to more comprehensive assistance, such as employment support and housing assistance. A few of the most popular nonprofit shelters include Westside Federation, Park Slope Safe Haven, and BronxWorks.

3. Private Shelters: Private shelters are typically operated by private organizations and often offer a range of services, including clothing and hygiene items, meals, and housing resources. A few of the most popular private shelters in NYC include the Bowery Mission and the Ali Forney Center.

Accessing Emergency Shelter in NYC

If you are in need of emergency shelter in New York City, the first step is to contact 311 for help. You can also look for available shelters on the DHS website or contact nonprofit organizations directly.

In some cases, you may be asked to go to a DHS intake center or to a homeless prevention center where you can get additional help and advice. This can include information about getting identification documents and applying for public benefits, as well as referrals to housing resources.

Eligibility for Emergency Shelter

In order to qualify for emergency shelter in NYC, you must be homeless and cannot have access to any other safe and secure place to stay. This includes not having a permanent residence or having been evicted or forced out of a residence by a family member or landlord.

If you meet these requirements and can provide acceptable identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, you should be able to access emergency shelter. You should also note that you must be 18 years of age or older in order to be eligible for emergency shelter services.

Types of Emergency Shelters

There are three main types of shelters in NYC – city shelters, nonprofit shelters, and private shelters. Each type of shelter provides different services and resources, so it’s important to determine which one is right for you depending on your needs.

1. City Shelters: City shelters are operated by the department of homeless services and are typically staffed 24/7 with social workers and counselors. These shelters provide basic accommodations and access to a range of services, including meals, medical care, and help with employment and housing.

2. Nonprofit Shelters: Nonprofit organizations run community-based shelters which typically provide more comprehensive care to those in need. This can include referrals to housing resources, employment assistance, and more.

3. Private Shelters: Private shelters are typically operated by private organizations and can offer a range of services, including clothes and hygiene items, meals, and advice on housing.

Health and Safety at Emergency Shelters

When accessing emergency shelter in NYC, it’s important to keep your own health and safety in mind. This is especially true if you are utilizing a shelter for an extended period of time.

1. Be Aware of Your Surroundings: It’s important to be aware of your surroundings, who is around you, and what is going on in the shelter. You should always know who has access to the shelter and who you are sharing the space with.

2. Follow Directions: It is important to follow the rules and regulations of the shelter you are staying in. This includes abiding by all curfew and access hours and refraining from engaging in any illegal activities.

3. Report Problems: If you experience any threats or issues during your stay, it’s important to report it immediately to the staff. This will help keep the environment safe and secure for everyone.

Key Services and Resources at Emergency Shelters

In addition to providing a safe and secure place to stay, emergency shelters in NYC typically provide access to a variety of services and resources.

1. Clothing: Many shelters provide clothing resources to those in need, from coats to undergarments.

2. Hygiene Items: Toiletry items such as soap, shampoo, and toothpaste are often available for those in need.

3. Meals: The majority of shelters provide three meals a day.

4. Medical Care: Most shelters provide access to basic healthcare services and have on-site social workers.

5. Counseling: Mental health counseling is often available for those in need.

6. Employment Services: Some shelters provide employment assistance, including help with resume writing, job referrals, and coaching.

7. Housing Assistance: Many shelters offer housing referrals and resources to help those in need find safe and secure housing.

Overall, there are a number of options for accessing emergency shelter in NYC. Whether you are in need of a safe place to stay or are looking for assistance in finding a permanent home, there is help out there. It is important to remember that there are eligibility requirements for accessing emergency shelters and you must follow the rules and regulations of the shelter. Additionally, there are a number of services and resources available at many of the shelters, providing more than just a place to stay. With the right guidance and the help of local organizations, you can access the emergency shelter you need to get on the path to a better life.