New York, NY – July 28, 2016 – Urban Resource Institute (URI), a leading provider of domestic violence programs and services in New York City, has opened two new emergency domestic violence shelters. The Hope House and Restoration Residence shelters were launched by URI as part of an effort from Mayor Bill de Blasio’s administration to significantly increase the number of emergency housing options for victims of domestic violence. In addition to providing beds for families fleeing abuse, Hope House and Restoration Residence will also offer services to singles who require shelter, including members of the LGBT community, the elderly, and those suffering from mental illness. The opening of these residences marks the first time since 2010 that new domestic violence shelter beds have been added in New York City.
“There is a real need for more beds to house victims of domestic violence in New York City,” said Nathaniel Fields, president and CEO of Urban Resource Institute. “Without sufficient housing options, victims of domestic violence are increasingly ending up within the homeless system, which does not have the capacity or specialized services necessary to effectively care for domestic abuse survivors. Our new shelters will allow more New Yorkers to escape abuse, heal in safety, and get back on their feet.”
In addition to providing temporary housing, both shelters offer comprehensive services to residents, including counseling, assistance in finding safe, permanent housing, advocacy, information and referrals, and economic empowerment services. These facilities also respond to individual resident needs by developing trauma-informed and culturally responsive service plans as well as a commitment to working with community partners to provide access to a complete array of beneficial services. URI is currently working in conjunction with the New York City Human Resources Administration and the New York State Office of Children and Family Services to place individuals into each facility.
“Traditionally, the domestic violence shelter system has provided services to women with children, with bed priority given to this group,” said Carla Smith, senior vice president of programs at Urban Resource Institute. “However, we know that there is a huge demand for shelters that respond to underserved groups, such as singles, members of the LGBT community, the elderly and individuals with mental health issues. Given this awareness, URI programs operate under an open-access model of care and are committed to serving all victims of domestic violence.”
Hope House opened on December 12, 2015 and currently has 54 beds with plans to expand to 60 beds. Restoration Residence opened on July 1, 2016 and currently has 96 beds with plans to increase capacity to 132.
To learn more about URI’s domestic violence shelters and for tips on keeping safe in domestic violence situations, please visit www.urinyc.org.
—
About Urban Resource Institute
Urban Resource Institute (URI) is a leading non-profit organization that provides comprehensive, holistic, and supportive human services programs that help individuals and families in the New York metropolitan area overcome obstacles and better their lives. With a rich 35-year legacy of social service research and expertise, deep community relationships, and a flexible, innovative approach to program development and service delivery, URI is uniquely equipped to provide solutions to the challenges affecting New York’s most vulnerable populations. URI’s hands-on programs for victims of domestic violence and the developmentally disabled are specifically tailored to meet the needs of the individual, while community outreach initiatives build wider visibility and support for the issues that have an impact on our clients’ quality of life and New York’s urban communities. For more information, please visit www.urinyc.org.
Join us in honoring clients, partners, and supporters who champion our mission and raise funds to enhance our life-changing services. We’re also celebrating a decade of PALS honoring the bond between domestic violence survivors and their pets.