Guardian Angels Begin Regular Patrol of New Migrant Shelter Site
Nonprofit Group Responds to Community Concerns Over Public Safety
The Guardian Angels have begun patrolling outside the newly-opened South Bronx migrant shelter, wearing their signature red jackets and berets, in an effort to deter crime and ease residents’ fears over public safety. The nonprofit group, founded by current Republican mayoral candidate Curtis Sliwa, has worked the streets of NYC since 1979.
Volunteer Residents and Clergy Join Forces
Working alongside volunteer residents and clergy, the Guardian Angels held a rally on Friday, announcing plans to patrol East 141st Street and Bruckner Avenue five days a week on rotating shifts. The 2,200-bed shelter, which has faced fierce community opposition, opened on February 22 and now appears to be processing many more residents for move-in.
Men arrive at the shelter on Feb. 28, 2025.Photo Emily Swanson
Pastor Boyde Singletary’s Concerns
Pastor Boyde Singletary, who was part of the rally and had organized previous rallies against the shelter, told the Bronx Times that he has already seen people he assumed to be migrants smoking and shooting up drugs on the street nearby. “At any moment, they could snap,” he said.
Guardian Angels’ Efforts
The Guardian Angels have received numerous calls from concerned residents asking for their presence, Senior Director Arnaldo Salinas told the Bronx Times. Salinas said he grew up five blocks from the shelter site and remembers the 1960s and 70s when the South Bronx was overrun with crime and violence. With the shelter, “It looks like we’re reverting back to the old days,” he said.
Community Concerns
As the shelter fills, people who live and work nearby said they are going about their lives with increased caution. An employee of a nearby business said that his small team of five is worried about vehicle thefts and break-ins and that no one walks to the train alone anymore. A Riverdale resident who requested not to have her name published said she attends an art school across the street and is there full-time most days. She worries about being targeted while walking to the train.
Conclusion
The Guardian Angels’ efforts to patrol the area aim to provide an added layer of security and reassurance to the community. While some residents have expressed concerns over the shelter’s impact on public safety, others have praised the group’s initiative. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the community will respond to the presence of the migrant shelter.
Frequently Asked Questions
* What is the purpose of the Guardian Angels’ patrol?
The Guardian Angels are patrolling the area to deter crime and ease residents’ fears over public safety.
* How many residents are currently living in the shelter?
The shelter has a capacity of 2,200 beds.
* What security measures have been implemented at the shelter?
The city has implemented metal detectors, ID checks, a curfew, and security guards.
* How can residents contact shelter management with concerns or issues?
The city has not provided contact information for residents to reach shelter management.
