The Institute for Community Living (ICL) Emerson-Davis Family Residence, a one-of-a-kind program that keeps families together, will move forward with the construction of a new building thanks to City Council Member Crystal Hudson, who recently allocated $1.5 million in capital funding for the project.
The Emerson Davis Family Residence, developed in 1996 in partnership with the State Office of Mental Health, is the only program in New York City to provide supportive housing and stabilization services for adults with mental health challenges who have been, or are at risk of being separated from their children, according to a press release.
"The Emerson Davis Family Residence has been a lifeline for many families in our community," said Hudson. "By providing stable housing and comprehensive support, this program has kept families together and helped them thrive. This $1.5 million investment underscores our commitment to supporting families and addressing the mental health crisis in our city.”
Since 2008, 49 families have transitioned out of Emerson with 74% remaining unified. In comparison, longitudinal studies indicate that 36% of children who are reunified with families are again separated and reenter foster care. Emerson Davis provides 24/7 support including comprehensive case management services, trauma-informed in-home family support services that promote independent living skills and tutoring, the press release said.
"This generous investment from City Council Member Hudson will enable us to expand housing opportunities and continue providing the high level of care that keeps children with parents who love them," said Jody Rudin, chief executive officer of the Institute for Community Living.
The 38-unit building located in Clinton Hill first opened in 1996 and was in need of significant repairs. ICL will redevelop the site into a new 12-story, 103-unit building for parents/heads of household with mental illness who are reunifying with their children or at risk of losing custody, as well as households earning up to 60% of the Area Median Income.
Community spaces will include a children's activity room, fitness room, tenant learning and work lounge, and a teaching kitchen within the community room. Construction will begin in 2025 and the new building is expected to open in 2028.
Current Emerson Davis participating families have been relocated to apartments in the community, the press release said.
