"Our volunteer numbers are at 50% of what they usually are, so I urge you to help us meet our mark and join our teams to canvass streets, parks and subways across all five boroughs. The yearly tally, known as the Homeless Outreach Population Estimate, or HOPE count, was supposed to take place in January but was rescheduled for Tuesday because of the winter storm and bitter cold stretch."
"A record-high 4,500 people were found sleeping in public spaces last year, about 360 more than the year before. Still, New York City maintains the lowest numbers of street-homeless people compared to other major U.S. cities, thanks in large part to its right-to-shelter mandate. About 3% of homeless New Yorkers sleep outdoors, while in Los Angeles, 70% of homeless people are living on the street."
"The survey is required for cities receiving federal funds and helps steer funding and resources toward homeless New Yorkers. The Mamdani administration said it's working to bring more street-homeless people into shelter or housing through increased outreach efforts and more accommodating shelter spaces."
New York City's Department of Homeless Services is seeking volunteers for the HOPE count, an annual census of unsheltered homeless people required for cities receiving federal funds. Originally scheduled for January, the count was rescheduled to Tuesday, March 10 due to winter weather. The survey helps direct funding and resources to homeless New Yorkers. Last year recorded a record-high 4,500 people sleeping in public spaces, an increase of 360 from the previous year. Despite this rise, New York City maintains the lowest street-homeless population among major U.S. cities, with only 3% of homeless individuals sleeping outdoors compared to 70% in Los Angeles. The city's right-to-shelter mandate contributes to this lower rate. Current volunteer recruitment is at 50% of normal levels, prompting urgent calls for participation.
Read at Gothamist
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