Categories: New York State
12.11.2015
Troy leaders urge Governor Cuomo to back 35,000 new units of supportive housing statewide.
Rocco DeFazio addresses the 33rd Annual Winter Walk for the HOmeless in Troy, NY
State Senator Neil Breslin (D- Albany), Assemblyman John T. McDonald III (D-Albany), and Lou Rosamilia, Mayor of Troy, and community leaders joined supportive housing residents from Joseph’s House & Shelter’s Hill Street residence in downtown Troy to urge Governor Cuomo to back 35,000 new units of supportive housing statewide. The event was held has a part of the 33rd Annual Winter Walk for the Homeless.
“It is incumbent upon us to work together and find ways to assist those in need: Supportive housing is a proven, common-sense solution that provides the tools necessary to assist the homeless,” said State Senator Neil Breslin “Committing to develop 35,000 new units of supportive housing will not only lift countless people out of poverty, but will also be an economic engine that will help revitalize neighborhoods.”
Also speaking at the event was co-host, Rocco DeFazio, owner of DeFazio’s Pizzeria and neighbor to Joseph’s House Hill Street. "We are glad to have Joseph's House as a neighbor," stated DeFazio. "The people who live and work at Hill Street are great neighbors and the residence has improved the quality of life in our community. In fact, we've held our own Little Italy Neighborhood Association meetings in their community room. The neighborhood is on the upswing since Hill Street Inn opened and we are actually expanding our restaurant."
“If it had not been for apartment programs like the one here at Joseph’s House & Shelter I would probably still be on the street looking for food and shelter. I am extremely grateful and here to show that these programs do work,” said one resident of Joseph’s House & Shelter Supportive Housing.
The event was accompanied by a march through downtown with the Troy Samba Marching Drum band, as well as a traditional holiday play by The Friends of Little Italy commemorating Mary and Joseph’s journey to find a “welcoming room at the Inn.”