New York City Council
Committee on General Welfare
Oct 09, 2024
·
10:00 AM
3 hr 9 min
Summary
A hearing on supporting survivors of domestic violence in New York City's shelter system.
Two bills were considered to expand reporting requirements on shelter exits and applications
Discussions focused on:
- Challenges in accessing safe housing and support services
- Shelter capacity and time limits
- Barriers for specific populations like single adults and LGBTQ individuals
- The need for improved data collection and trauma-informed care.
Recommendations included:
- Increasing shelter capacity
- Eliminating time limits
- Improving cultural competency
- Expanding housing voucher programs.
Features testimony from the Human Resources Administration (HRA), Mayor's Office to End Domestic and Gender-Based Violence (ENDGBV), and the public, including domestic violence survivors and advocacy organizations.
Meeting chapters
Read summaries and watch videos for short segments that matter to you.
Council Member Diana Ayala's opening remarks on supporting domestic violence survivors in NYC shelters
Council Member Diana Ayala, Chair of the General Welfare Committee, delivers opening remarks for an oversight hearing on supporting survivors of domestic violence in New York City's shelter system. She …
0:00:47
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4 min
Council Member Farah Louis gives opening remarks on supporting domestic violence survivors in NYC shelters
Council Member Farah Louis, chair of the Committee on Women and Gender Equity, delivers opening remarks for a hearing on supporting domestic violence survivors in New York City's shelter system. …
0:04:51
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152 sec
Introduction and context of the testimony
John Rojas, Chief Special Services Officer at HRA, introduces himself and the purpose of the testimony on supporting survivors of domestic violence in NYC's shelter system. He acknowledges the committees …
0:08:00
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27 sec
Overview of NYC's domestic violence shelter system
The speaker acknowledges Domestic Violence Awareness Month and emphasizes the importance of supporting survivors, their loved ones, and advocates. He welcomes the opportunity to update the council on initiatives within …
0:08:28
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48 sec
Contact information for domestic violence help hotlines
The speaker provides contact information for various hotlines and resources available to those experiencing domestic or gender-based violence in New York City. - New York City 24-hour domestic violence hotline: …
0:09:16
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41 sec
Client-centered approach in domestic violence services
The speaker emphasizes the importance of focusing on client and family needs in providing domestic violence services. They strive to offer culturally competent care and trauma-informed services to survivors. - …
0:10:01
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25 sec
Size and structure of NYC's domestic violence shelter system
The speaker provides an overview of New York City's domestic violence shelter system, which is the largest in the country. The system includes emergency and transitional shelters across all five …
0:10:28
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45 sec
Statistics and services in NYC's domestic violence shelters
The speaker provides statistics on the number of individuals served in NYC's domestic violence shelters and outlines the various services available to survivors within the shelter system. - In fiscal …
0:11:13
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50 sec
Pathways to intake for domestic violence shelters
The speaker outlines three main pathways for intake into the domestic violence shelter system in New York City. - Pathway 1: Through the Safe Horizon hotline - Survivors can connect …
0:12:04
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51 sec
Essential services provided in domestic violence shelters
The speaker outlines the essential services that domestic violence emergency shelter providers are required to offer to residents. - Hotline services: Crisis intervention counseling, information, and referrals - Safe and …
0:12:56
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107 sec
Independent Living Plan and tailored services for shelter residents
The speaker describes the Independent Living Plan (ILP) development process for shelter residents and emphasizes the importance of tailored services to meet individual needs. - ILP must be developed within …
0:14:45
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47 sec
Time limits and challenges in emergency domestic violence shelters
The speaker outlines the time limits imposed on emergency domestic violence shelters and the challenges associated with these limits and shelter capacity. - New York State imposes time limits on …
0:15:33
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49 sec
Regulatory framework governing domestic violence shelters
The speaker outlines the regulatory framework, including state and federal laws, that governs the operation of domestic violence shelters in New York City. - New York State and federal laws …
0:16:22
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84 sec
Proposed legislation on domestic violence shelter reporting
The speaker describes two pieces of proposed legislation that would modify reporting requirements for domestic violence shelters in New York City. - File number 2572 (amendment to Local Law 83 …
0:17:47
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57 sec
Considerations for implementing new reporting requirements
The speaker outlines important considerations and potential challenges in implementing new reporting requirements for domestic violence shelters. - All reporting legislation requires careful consideration for feasibility and capacity - Seemingly …
0:18:45
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49 sec
Support for state legislation to increase capacity for single adult survivors
The speaker expresses support for pending state legislation that would increase capacity for single adult survivors in domestic violence shelters. - Legislation: A2583A/S515A (Rosenthal/Gounardes) - Key provision: Authorizes reimbursement for …
0:19:35
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42 sec
Conclusion and acknowledgment of ongoing efforts
The speaker concludes the testimony by expressing gratitude and acknowledging the ongoing efforts to improve domestic violence services in New York City. - Gratitude expressed to staff, providers, and stakeholders, …
0:20:18
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32 sec
Current vacancy rates and capacity of NYC's domestic violence shelter system
Council Member Diana Ayala inquires about the current vacancy rates in HRA's domestic violence emergency and tier 2 shelters. HRA officials provide the following information: - The vacancy rate for …
0:21:16
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3 min
Plans to expand DV shelter capacity, focusing on single adults and LGBTQ survivors
HRA officials discuss plans to expand the capacity of the domestic violence shelter system in New York City: - An RFP is being prepared to add 94 new emergency shelter …
0:24:40
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77 sec
Statistics on DV shelter occupancy, costs, and client outcomes
Council Member Diana Ayala inquires about various statistics related to DV shelters, and HRA officials provide detailed information: - The number of individuals served in DV shelters has remained relatively …
0:25:58
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6 min
Decrease in eligible families entering HRA DV shelters from PATH intake
Council Member Diana Ayala inquires about the decreasing percentage of eligible families entering HRA's domestic violence shelters from the PATH intake process: - The percentage has decreased from 23% in …
0:32:01
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171 sec
CityFHEPS vouchers and expansion of supportive housing for DV survivors
Council Member Diana Ayala inquires about the process for applying for CityFHEPS vouchers and the expansion of supportive housing for DV survivors: - Family Justice Centers can link survivors to …
0:34:52
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3 min
Plans to reinstate streamlined process for transitioning DV survivors to DHS shelters
Council Member Diana Ayala inquires about plans to reinstate the streamlined process for transitioning DV survivors from HRA domestic violence shelters to DHS shelters: - The administration is planning to …
0:38:33
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152 sec
HPD homeless set-asides for domestic violence survivors
Council Member Farah Louis inquires about the implementation of HPD homeless set-asides for domestic violence survivors in HRA DV shelters. Deputy Commissioner Rima Rivera explains the two-phase process of providing …
0:41:11
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111 sec
Housing placements for survivors in DHS shelter system
Council Member Farah Louis inquires about the number of survivors in the DHS shelter system who were able to move to set-aside apartments in FY24. Deputy Commissioner Aqueelah Winston provides …
0:43:02
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51 sec
ENDGBV's microgrant program for domestic violence survivors
Council Member Farah Louis inquires about ENDGBV's microgrant program for domestic violence survivors. Jennifer DeCarli provides information on the program's launch, application process, and current status. - Program officially launched …
0:43:52
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5 min
Housing resources provided at Family Justice Centers
Jennifer DeCarli outlines the various housing resources available to domestic violence survivors at Family Justice Centers. These include: - FEPS program for survivors with children on public assistance - Collaboration …
0:49:40
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128 sec
HRA liaisons available at Family Justice Centers
Jennifer DeCarli and Rima Rivera explain the availability and role of HRA liaisons at Family Justice Centers (FJCs): - One HRA liaison rotates among the five FJCs, spending one day …
0:51:48
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122 sec
Processing of domestic violence liaison waivers
Rima Rivera explains the process of handling domestic violence liaison waivers: - Liaisons at Family Justice Centers do not process waivers directly - Social workers at benefit access centers process …
0:53:51
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43 sec
Follow-up process for clients placed in housing through Family Justice Centers
Jennifer DeCarli explains the follow-up process for clients placed in housing through Family Justice Centers: - Clients are assigned a case manager from either city-contracted or community network partners - …
0:54:36
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115 sec
Implementation of Local Law 45 for door and window repair services for DV survivors
Council Member Farah Louis inquires about the implementation of Local Law 45, which established a program for door and window repair and security services for survivors of domestic violence. Jennifer …
0:56:32
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96 sec
Wait times and accommodation process for emergency DV shelters
Council Member Jennifer Gutiérrez inquires about the average wait time for families seeking emergency shelter. Deputy Commissioner Rima Rivera explains that the placement time depends on finding suitable accommodations, which …
0:58:28
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87 sec
Shared living arrangements in emergency DV shelters
Council Member Gutiérrez inquires about specific accommodations available in emergency shelters. Deputy Commissioner Rivera explains the factors considered when placing survivors in emergency shelters. - Accommodations depend on family configuration …
0:59:55
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89 sec
School considerations for children in DV shelters
Council Member Gutiérrez inquires about considerations made for children's schooling when families enter DV shelters. Deputy Commissioner Rivera explains the options available under the McKinney-Vento Act. - Parents can choose …
1:01:24
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58 sec
Oversight and monitoring of DV shelter services
Council Member Gutiérrez inquires about HRA's role in ensuring Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) providing DV shelter services have adequate funding and support. John Rojas and Rima Rivera explain the oversight process. …
1:02:23
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137 sec
Accessibility for clients with disabilities in DV shelters
Council Member Gutiérrez inquires about plans to increase accessibility of DV shelters for clients with disabilities and the current state of accessibility. Deputy Commissioner Rivera provides information on ADA-compliant beds …
1:04:42
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117 sec
Council member inquires about culturally competent shelter services for Muslim domestic violence survivors
Council Member Alexa Avilés raises concerns about the availability of culturally competent shelter services for Muslim women and children who are survivors of domestic violence. City officials from HRA and …
1:06:47
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4 min
Transition process for clients timing out of DV shelters to DHS system
Council Member Diana Ayala inquires about the process for clients who time out of domestic violence (DV) shelters transitioning to the Department of Homeless Services (DHS) shelter system. Deputy Commissioner …
1:11:25
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83 sec
Timeline for resuming streamlined transition process and rental assistance eligibility
Council Member Diana Ayala inquires about the timeline for resuming the streamlined transition process between DV and DHS shelters. The administration aims to resume this process by the end of …
1:12:48
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58 sec
Services for new arrivals experiencing domestic violence
Council Member Diana Ayala inquires about the administration's efforts to serve new arrivals experiencing domestic violence. Jennifer DeCarli from the Mayor's Office to End Domestic and Gender-Based Violence (MOEDGBV) explains …
1:13:46
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96 sec
Impact of time limit policy on processing new arrival applicants for DV shelters
Council Member Diana Ayala inquires about how the time limit policy affects the processing of new arrival applicants for domestic violence (DV) shelters. Officials explain the process and clarify the …
1:15:23
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3 min
Local Law 83 reporting requirements and availability of reports
Council Member Diana Ayala inquires about the reporting requirements under Local Law 83, which mandates annual reports on exits from domestic violence emergency shelters. The discussion covers the availability and …
1:18:27
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106 sec
Proposed changes to reporting requirements for DV shelters
Council Member Diana Ayala inquires about the administration's stance on proposed changes to reporting requirements for domestic violence shelters, specifically Intros 2572 and 2573. These changes would increase reporting frequency …
1:20:15
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51 sec
Application and admission data for HRA DV shelters in August 2024
Council Member Diana Ayala requests specific application and admission data for HRA domestic violence shelters in August 2024. Officials explain the complexities of the application process and provide available admission …
1:21:08
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177 sec
Status and outcomes of Project Home pilot with New Destiny Housing
Council Member Diana Ayala inquires about the status and outcomes of the Project Home pilot, a partnership with New Destiny Housing announced in April 2022. Officials provide an update on …
1:24:05
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165 sec
Testimony by Stephanie Mansfield on Her Experience as a Domestic Violence Survivor
Stephanie Mansfield, a 36-year-old Haitian American immigrant and single mother of three, shares her personal experience as a domestic violence survivor. She describes her journey from an abusive relationship to …
1:29:07
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9 min
Testimony by Crystal Murall on Her Experience with Domestic Violence and the Shelter System
Crystal Murall shares her personal journey of escaping domestic violence and navigating the New York City shelter system. She describes the challenges she faced, including the initial intake process, placement …
1:38:56
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3 min
Testimony by Daniris Espinal, Survivor and Mother, on Domestic Violence and Housing
Daniris Espinal, a mother and survivor of domestic violence, testifies about the interconnectedness of domestic violence and homelessness in New York City. She highlights the challenges survivors face in finding …
1:42:09
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3 min
Testimony by Stephanie Woodbine, Co-chair of Advisory Council at Mayor's Office to End Gender-Based Violence (MOEGBV)
Stephanie Woodbine, a domestic violence survivor and advocate, shared her personal experience with homelessness and housing instability due to domestic violence. She emphasized the critical need for permanent and affordable …
1:45:34
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5 min
Council Member Ayala acknowledges survivors' resilience and shares personal experience
Council Member Diana Ayala expresses gratitude to the survivors for sharing their stories and acknowledges the resilience and power in the room. She reveals that she and her colleague Farah …
1:51:21
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66 sec
Council Member Ayala emphasizes the importance of sharing stories and advocacy
Council Member Diana Ayala stresses the significance of sharing personal stories and advocating for those who haven't yet found their voice. She expresses hope for a future with less domestic …
1:52:28
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60 sec
Council Member Farah Louis echoes support and encourages continued advocacy
Council Member Farah Louis briefly responds to the testimony, echoing the sentiments expressed by Deputy Speaker Ayala and offering words of encouragement to the survivors. - Louis acknowledges the difficulty …
1:53:32
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34 sec
Testimony by Gabriela Sandoval Requena, Director of Policy and Communications at New Destiny Housing
Gabriela Sandoval Requena from New Destiny Housing testified about the challenges faced by domestic violence survivors in securing affordable housing after escaping abuse. She highlighted key findings from their recent …
1:55:21
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3 min
Testimony by Shanequa Anne Holiday, Associate Vice President of DV Shelters at Safe Horizon
Shanequa Anne Holiday, Associate Vice President of DV Shelters at Safe Horizon, testified about the organization's work supporting domestic violence survivors in New York City's shelter system. She highlighted Safe …
1:59:16
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4 min
Testimony by Chris Mann, Assistant Vice President of Policy and Advocacy at Women In Need (WIN)
Chris Mann from Women In Need (WIN) testifies about the challenges faced by domestic violence survivors in New York City's shelter system. He highlights the lack of permanent housing options …
2:03:27
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144 sec
Testimony by Kameeza Nizam-Chattoo, Senior Deputy Director of Residential Services at Sanctuary for Families
Kameeza Nizam-Chattoo from Sanctuary for Families testified on supporting domestic violence survivors in New York City's shelter system. She highlighted challenges in the current system and proposed several recommendations to …
2:05:58
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3 min
Discussion on capacity balance between DV and DHS shelter systems
Council Member Lincoln Restler inquires about the balance between DV shelter capacity and DHS shelter capacity in meeting the needs of domestic violence survivors. Chris Mann from WIN responds that …
2:10:11
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77 sec
Challenges in transitioning from DV shelters to DHS shelters
Council Member Restler raises concerns about the process of transitioning families from time-limited DV shelters to the DHS system. The panel members highlight that the process has worsened, requiring families …
2:11:28
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125 sec
Discussion on security issues at Glenwood WIN shelter
Council Member Farah Louis inquires about the status of security measures, particularly door and window repairs, at the Glenwood WIN shelter in her district. Chris Mann from WIN acknowledges the …
2:13:35
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90 sec
Time restrictions in domestic violence shelters
Council Member Diana Ayala inquires about time restrictions in domestic violence shelters, specifically the 30/60 day rules. Kameeza Nizam-Chattoo from Sanctuary for Families explains the typical timeline for shelter stays …
2:15:06
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75 sec
Clarification on the 30/60 day rule application
Chris Mann from Women In Need (WIN) clarifies the application of the 30/60 day rule in different shelter systems. - The 30/60 day rule doesn't apply to DV shelters due …
2:16:21
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18 sec
Testimony by Teal Inzunza, Associate Vice President of Justice Initiatives at Urban Resource Institute (URI)
Teal Inzunza from the Urban Resource Institute (URI) testified on the challenges faced by domestic violence survivors in accessing safe and affordable housing in New York City. She presented several …
2:18:05
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113 sec
Testimony by Blair Dorosh-Walther, Director of Economic Empowerment at Urban Resource Institute (URI)
Blair Dorosh-Walther from the Urban Resource Institute testifies about the challenges faced by domestic violence survivors in achieving economic stability and independence due to the limitations of public benefit programs …
2:20:02
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156 sec
Testimony by Elijah Polon Frank, Coordinator of Equity Initiatives at Urban Resource Institute (URI)
Elijah Polon Frank from Urban Resource Institute (URI) testified about the importance of financial empowerment for domestic violence survivors and the challenges they face, particularly regarding childcare access. He emphasized …
2:22:45
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178 sec
Testimony by Stephanie Paer, Program Manager of Crime Victim Services at Urban Resource Institute (URI)
Stephanie Paer from Urban Resource Institute testifies about the challenges domestic violence survivors face in securing permanent housing. She highlights discrimination against voucher holders, limited housing support programs, and the …
2:25:46
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171 sec
Testimony by Karena Lim-Peralta, Social Work Supervisor at Center for Family Representation (CFR)
Karena Lim-Peralta, a social work supervisor at the Center for Family Representation (CFR), testified about the challenges faced by domestic violence survivors in the NYC shelter system. She highlighted how …
2:30:16
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166 sec
Testimony by Laura Horvath-Roa, Staff Attorney at New York City Anti Violence Project (AVP)
Laura Horvath-Roa from the New York City Anti Violence Project (AVP) presents recommendations for increasing shelter access for LGBTQ survivors of intimate partner violence. She introduces a toolkit developed by …
2:33:10
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106 sec
Testimony by Rachel Kang, Director of Intervention Services at Korean American Family Service Center (KAFSC)
Rachel Kang, representing KAFSC and the collective coalition, testified on the challenges faced by immigrant survivors of gender-based violence in accessing shelter services and benefits in NYC. She highlighted issues …
2:35:01
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138 sec
Testimony by Juan Diaz, Policy Associate at Citizens' Committee for Children (CCC)
Juan Diaz, representing the Citizens' Committee for Children (CCC), testified on the intersection of poverty, gender, and race in domestic violence and homelessness. He expressed support for proposed legislation to …
2:38:16
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124 sec
Testimony by Catherine Trapani, Assistant Vice President for Public Policy at Volunteers of America-Greater New York
Catherine Trapani from Volunteers of America-Greater New York provided testimony on domestic violence shelters and services. She addressed questions about time limits for asylum seekers in DV shelters, highlighted their …
2:40:26
·
4 min
Testimony by Heaven Berhane, Project Director of RISE Project at Center for Justice Innovation
Heaven Berhane, Project Director of the RISE Project at the Center for Justice Innovation, testifies about the increasing instances of domestic violence homicides in New York City and the challenges …
2:44:58
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159 sec
Testimony by Barbara Manny on Homelessness and Shelter System Challenges
Barbara Manny, a 56-year-old mother of two disabled sons, testifies about her family's struggle with homelessness since 2018 due to issues with their Section 8 voucher and challenges navigating the …
2:47:46
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7 min
Testimony by Sharlena Powell, Member of the Public
Sharlena Powell, a survivor of domestic violence and subject matter expert, provided testimony on domestic violence shelter exit planning from the perspective of a single person household survivor. She addressed …
2:56:10
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169 sec
Testimony by Janyll Canals, Director of the Robin Hood Project at Advocates for Children of New York
Janyll Canals, Director of the Robin Hood Project at Advocates for Children of New York, testified about the challenges faced by survivors of domestic violence in the shelter system, particularly …
2:59:10
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146 sec
Testimony by Shani Adess, Vice President of New York Legal Assist Group (NYLAG), on Supporting Survivors of Domestic Violence in NYC's Shelter System
Shani Adess, Vice President of NYLAG, testified about the need for more accessible, inclusive, and trauma-informed domestic violence shelters in New York City. She emphasized the importance of expanding options …
3:01:44
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135 sec
Testimony by Debbie Donastorg, Program Director of Safe Homes Project at Good Shepherd Services
Debbie Donastorg, Program Director of Safe Homes Project at Good Shepherd Services, testified about the challenges faced by domestic violence survivors in New York City's shelter system and community-based programs. …
3:04:05
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126 sec
Testimony by Danielle Emery, Director of People and Animals Living Safely (PALS) at Urban Resource Institute (URI), on Pet-Inclusive Domestic Violence Shelters
Danielle Emery, Director of PALS at URI, testified about the importance of pet-inclusive domestic violence shelters and the challenges faced by survivors with pets. She highlighted URI's pioneering role in …
3:06:20
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132 sec
