For 20 years, HSU has been strategically focused on promoting effective solutions to end the crisis of homelessness in New York City, working to ensure all New Yorkers experiencing homelessness have the resources they need to move onto permanent, stable housing.
We advocate for the expansion of affordable housing and prevention services, while also pushing for enhanced and immediate access to safe, decent, emergency and transitional housing, outreach and drop-in services for homeless New Yorkers.
Since its inception, HSU has been a leader in sound and compassionate homeless policy development.
Our Key Issues
Strengthening the Social Safety Net
The homeless service system is the last defense of the social safety net. Strengthening the social safety net at large prevents more New Yorkers from entering homelessness and opens up much needed capacity in the shelter system.
Developing People-Centered Approaches to Care
Too often, we force New Yorkers experiencing homelessness to fit into systems-centered processes that leave many falling through gaps. We aim to flip that by designing people-centered approaches that are easy to access and support clients throughout their journey to permanent housing.
Promoting Prompt-Contracting Practices
Years of delayed payment and procurement practices have weakened nonprofit organization’s ability to provide services without disruption. We advocate for procurement reform that reflects the crucial value of nonprofit organizations.
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Our advocacy works drives systemic policy changes at the local, state, and federal levels.Â
Reports and Publications
Explore our reports and publications that identify barriers in our system and recommend effective and viable solutions to end homelessness.
Testimony
Read our testimony that seek to advance policies at all levels of government to enact change.