Safe Havens in the City: Finding Shelter and Support in NYC

This blog post provides information on finding safe shelter and accessing crucial support services for individuals facing crises in New York City.

New York City’s relentless energy and towering skyline can feel overwhelming, especially for individuals facing homelessness, domestic violence, or other crises. Across all five boroughs, a network of dedicated organizations and shelters offers lifesaving support and safe havens for those in need.

When urgent shelter is required, New York City provides several emergency housing options:

• Department of Homeless Services (DHS) shelters for single adults, families, and young adults, with intake centers handling applications
• Confidential domestic violence shelters run by organizations such as Safe Horizon and the NYC Alliance Against Sexual Assault, offering safety planning, counseling, and legal assistance
• Youth shelters like Covenant House and The Door that focus on homeless and runaway young people, providing safe housing and support services

Transitional housing programs deliver longer-term accommodations and supportive services to help residents achieve independence:

• HUD-funded programs operated by non‑profits, offering subsidized housing and case management for a fixed term
• Supportive housing models combining affordable units with on-site services for individuals with mental health or substance use challenges, coordinated by the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene

Shelter is only the first step. These services help individuals rebuild and maintain stability:

• Food banks and pantries, such as City Harvest and Food Bank For New York City, distributing meals to shelters and community programs
• Mental health resources through initiatives like ThriveNYC, connecting residents with counseling and trauma support
• Job training and placement services at Workforce1 Career Centers to develop skills and secure employment

Reaching out for assistance is crucial. Here are ways to find shelter and support in NYC:

• Call 311 for connections to shelters, food services, and social programs
• Contact neighborhood community organizations for referrals and immediate aid
• Visit a DHS intake center for emergency shelter placement

Finding a safe haven in New York City is possible. By knowing where to turn and taking that first step, individuals in crisis can access the resources they need to rebuild their lives.