Categories: New York City
12.12.2023
On December 7th, the Network’s Associate Director of Engagement and Communications Joelle Ballam-Schwan testified at the City Council oversight hearing on supportive housing held jointly by the Committees on General Welfare; Mental Health, Disabilities and Addiction; Housing and Buildings; and Veterans. Joelle joined nonprofits in opposing the remaining 10% of Mayor Adams’ 15% proposed budget cuts; urged the city to adopt the Network’s NYC 15/15 reallocation plan; advocated that the city #JustPay the human services workforce and fund an annual COLA; and that the city expand supportive housing opportunities for those leaving jail/prison and survivors of domestic violence. Read the full testimony here.
On December 11th, the Network’s Associate Director of Advocacy and Outreach Tierra Labrada testified at the City Council Committee on Finance oversight hearing on the November Plan to strongly oppose the Mayor’s proposed PEGS, stressing that the cuts would have catastrophic effects on the city’s supportive housing system and the vital agencies overseeing mental health and housing programs. Tierra urged the council to hold housing and homelessness-related agencies harmless from cuts: DOHMH, HPD, DHS, HRA, DOB and DCP. Read the full testimony here.