Categories: Funding, New York State
01.16.2024
While we recognize the state’s fiscal constraints and appreciate Governor Hochul’s commitment of critical resources to address the mounting mental health crisis, we are disappointed that her proposed spending plan overlooks the significant role supportive housing plays in protecting the most vulnerable New Yorkers.
Right now, 9,000 critical supportive housing units that are home to formerly homeless individuals and families are unsustainably funded by an outdated formula – the New York State Supportive Housing Program (NYSSHP) that has not seen a significant increase in close to four decades.
The Network and its allies are calling for a simple and reasonable increase in funds - $32 million in the current budget year – to protect these units and prevent the tenants who live in them from returning to the streets. This could be accomplished by converting the 9,000 units from NYSSHP to the better-funded Empire State Supportive Housing Initiative (ESSHI).
The governor’s budget proposes increases to Office of Mental Health scattered site supportive units – something the Network has long supported. However, NYSSHP, which is dramatically underfunded in comparison, continues to be ignored.
At a time when the state is facing multiple challenges – from an influx of deadly opioids to a significant lack of affordable homes – New York cannot afford to lose a single unit.
In addition, the hardworking nonprofit employees who provide the services that enable formerly homeless individuals to stay housed deserve to be paid a competitive salary to combat the ongoing labor crisis our sector is experiencing. The proposed 1.5% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) falls short of the 3.2% that the behavioral health advocacy community has called for based on inflation.
We will be working with our legislative champions in the coming weeks to ensure these priorities are included in the final budget deal and that all New Yorkers are able to access the housing and service they require.