Q&A
Challenges in transitioning from DV shelters to DHS shelters
2:11:28
·
125 sec
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 to reapply through PATH instead of transitioning seamlessly.
- The current process is described as traumatizing and unfair for families.
- Restler advocates for decentralizing PATH and creating borough-specific intake centers to improve accessibility.
- The council member expresses willingness to help identify space for a Brooklyn PATH Center.
Lincoln Restler
2:11:28
And that was and the next question I just want to ask is, you know, we because our DV shelter system is time limited, we often see families in need of having to enter into the DHS system.
2:11:41
Have we made any improvements as a city in trying to make that a seamless or improved referral process, or are we just sending people to path and hoping for the best?
Chris Mann
2:11:49
I I mean, I think Gabby can probably talk better about this, but I would say it's gotten worse
Lincoln Restler
2:11:55
or it's fine.
Chris Mann
2:11:56
Because now families have to go back to path rather than just being able to seamlessly transition into DHL.
Lincoln Restler
2:12:03
Because if if the family is in the DB shelter system, it's time limited.
2:12:08
We know that on day certain, they're gonna have no place to go.
2:12:11
Why would we send them through a complicated written rule to ensure that they have safe and stable housing?
2:12:18
I don't know
Chris Mann
2:12:19
if we No.
2:12:19
If you think Yeah.
Gabriela Sandoval Requena
2:12:21
Yeah.
2:12:21
I think I second, Chris, we asked the same question to the to the agency.
2:12:26
And we heard earlier today during their HRA testimony that apparently they are looking into reinstating that rule, but it's devastating.
2:12:35
It's traumatizing.
2:12:37
Just the fact that you have to reapply for shelter, go through the whole process Right.
2:12:41
It it's just very, very, I mean, definition of unfair.
Stephanie Mansfield
2:12:45
Absolutely.
2:12:45
Yes.
Lincoln Restler
2:12:46
And, you know, of the things that I know our chairwoman has supported for a long time and that I strongly believe in as well, you know, is the decentralization of path is critically important for families around the city.
2:12:58
Why we would send families from Sunset Park New York or downtown Brooklyn to the South Bronx or Southeast Queens, wherever it may be, that every single one of those families has to go to the South Bronx doesn't make sense.
2:13:09
And I for one would welcome a a Brooklyn Path Center in Downtown Brooklyn, Industrial Thirty Three, because it's the most convenient place to get in Brooklyn.
2:13:19
And so, you know, I have made that very clear to DSS leadership for years, and we'll continue to do so and help them identify space if that ever becomes an So thanks so much for the opportunity to ask a couple of questions.
2:13:30
And most of all, thank you for your hard
Diana Ayala
2:13:32
work.
2:13:32
Thank you, Consumables.
