The High Stakes of Housing Insecurity for New York City’s Children
Housing insecurity has a profound impact on the lifelong development and well-being of children, affecting their ability to succeed in school and their overall health. Unfortunately, the reality is that New York City is facing a housing crisis, with 22,000 children living in homeless shelters and many more struggling to afford safe and stable housing.
The Consequences of Housing Insecurity
Each day, every week, and every month that a child spends in a homeless shelter can have devastating consequences. They may experience trauma, have difficulties in school, and struggle to develop vital social skills and friendships. Furthermore, overcrowded and substandard housing conditions are common, with one in three families with children living in units that are too small or have maintenance issues.
Escaping the Housing Crisis
The City of Yes for Housing plan is a step towards securing a safe and affordable home for every child. This initiative will update New York City’s zoning regulations, making it easier to build housing across the city and increasing the accessibility of affordable housing. With the potential to add 250,000 new homes over the next 15 years, this plan can fundamentally improve the lives and livelihoods of tens of thousands of children.
Additional Solutions
While the City of Yes for Housing is an important solution, it is not the only one. The Citizens’ Committee for Children is working to advance state and local action to improve shelter conditions, accelerate access to permanent affordable housing, and expand access to and investments in housing vouchers to prevent homelessness.
A Call to Action
To protect New York City’s children and their families, we must address the housing and homelessness crisis head-on. We need bold leadership and a comprehensive approach to tackle the root causes of the problem. Speaker Adrienne Adams’ leadership on housing is crucial, and we urge the City Council to pass the City of Yes for Housing Opportunity.
Conclusion
The future of New York City’s children depends on our ability to provide them with a safe, affordable, and permanent home. We must capitalize on every opportunity to make our city and housing more affordable and livable, starting with the passage of the City of Yes for Housing Opportunity.
FAQs
Q: What is the City of Yes for Housing plan?
A: The City of Yes for Housing plan updates New York City’s zoning regulations to make it easier to build housing across the city and increase the accessibility of affordable housing.
Q: How much new housing will the City of Yes for Housing plan add?
A: The City of Yes for Housing plan has the potential to add 250,000 new homes over the next 15 years.
Q: What is the Citizens’ Committee for Children doing to address the housing crisis?
A: The Citizens’ Committee for Children is working to advance state and local action to improve shelter conditions, accelerate access to permanent affordable housing, and expand access to and investments in housing vouchers to prevent homelessness.
