Homelessness affects everyone within a community, but is particularly devastating to those who experience the loss of a home. Homelessness disrupts every aspect of family life, damaging the physical and emotional health of the family, interfering with children’s education and development, and frequently results in the separation of family members. Some of the major causes for family homelessness are a lack of affordable housing, limited employment opportunities, domestic violence and addiction disorders.

 

The following information may offer insight on the plight of the homeless as well as the impact homelessness has on the overall community.

 

 

Homelessness In The News

 

Read the latest articles on the state of homelessness in NYC and the US >

 

 

Statistics

 

Find the latest statistical information on homelessness >

 

 

Information on Homelessness

 

Find information on how homelessness impacts families >

 

 

Are You or someone you know homeless or in danger of becoming homeless?

 

The Prevention Assistance and Temporary Housing Office (PATH), located in The Bronx, is an intake center for families in New York City. PATH determines shelter eligibility and, if found eligible, provides placement in temporary shelters or permanent housing based on availability.

 

Prevention Assistance and Temporary Housing (PATH) Office
151 East 151st Street
Bronx, NY 10451
Open 24 hours, 7 days a week
For more information, please call 311

 

 

Yamaira and her children

Yamaira's Story

Yamaira, with her own apartment since 18, felt her life was on track. After high school she earned a medical assistant certificate, quickly finding work. She was soon married with children, balancing family and professional life.

 

Unfortunately Yamaira and her husband separated. Without childcare she couldn’t work or pay bills. She and her children had to enter a shelter.

 

Thinking back, she said, "I felt like I failed as a mother and person. I cried all the time and couldn't eat or sleep. My eldest daughter was so embarrassed she could hardly face the kids at school.”

 

Through WIN, Yamaira regained her confidence, noting "… when I think of WIN, I think of my housing counselor. She is my backbone, my shoulder, my reality check. She got me back on track."

 

Yamaira's children attended WIN’s pre-school and utilized the recreation and after-school programs. With them in a safe and nurturing environment, Yamaira could work and look for an apartment. Looking forward, she says, “I know my sun will come out again!"

 

WIN's programs in education and development improve the lives of families as well as the overall community.