The funds will go toward creating 80 units of emergency and permanent housing for homeless families and individuals, as well 46 units of affordable housing for low-income residents
On Wednesday, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced that $11.4 million in state funding has been awarded to one supportive housing project in Brooklyn and two in Oneida County. The funds will go toward creating 103 units of emergency and permanent housing for homeless older adults, youth, families and individuals with mental illness, and are made available by the NY State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance's Homeless Housing and Assistance Program.
"These projects will help many of our most vulnerable New Yorkers by providing them with a safe, stable and affordable place to live," said Governor Cuomo. "We are investing in new supportive housing projects to revitalize communities and help build a stronger New York for all."
The nonprofit social services organization Breaking Ground will be receiving $7 million of the $11.4 million available. The organization will be working with the African American Planning Commission to develop 80 units of supportive housing, and 46 affordable units for individuals and families in Brooklyn.
Breaking Ground creates quality permanent and transitional housing for the homeless. The organization's philosophy holds that supportive housing costs substantially less than homeless shelters, yet create more sustainable, holistic outcomes. Since its foundation in 1990 by Rosanne Haggerty, the organization has created more than 5,000 units of housing for the homeless. Currently, Breaking Ground is maintaining four buildings and a community garden in Brownsville, East New York and Downtown Brooklyn.
"There are a number of homeless shelters in the 55th Assembly District and almost all of them are at max capacity. On behalf of the community, churches, pastors, and stakeholders, I applaud Governor Cuomo for funding to supportive housing initiatives because we see how imperative it is in Brownsville and Brooklyn altogether," said Assemblywoman Latrice Walker of the 55th District. "One of the most important priorities to the people of Brooklyn is tackling the homeless crisis."
