New York City’s Response to the Asylum Seeker Crisis
As the number of asylum seekers continues to increase, New York City recognizes the need for a sustainable and long-term approach to address the crisis. The Office of New Americans Services and Outreach (OASO) has been established to lead the city’s transition from an emergency response-approach to a steady-state approach.
Centralized Arrival Center and Housing Strategies
OASO’s main initiative will be the establishment of a new, centralized 24/7 arrival center to replace the Port Authority as the primary destination for asylum seekers. The city will also explore potential short- and long-term strategies regarding housing, including partnerships with religious institutions and innovative ways to finance new affordable housing. A pilot program with The Center for Discovery and SUNY Sullivan will offer 100 asylum seekers the opportunity to live at the SUNY Sullivan campus and receive workforce training.