Formed nearly two decades ago, the Coalition for the Homeless’ Client Advisory Group (CAG) helps organize New Yorkers living in NYC shelters. CAG is a multifaceted peer support and activism group that engages in advocacy, education, empowerment, and socialization.
CAG is a group of individuals focused on homelessness and housing justice in New York City. Led by the homeless community, CAG brings together homeless individuals, formerly homeless individuals, and advocates to discuss and learn from each other. It also allows community members to engage with Coalition advocacy efforts and provide insights into central issues impacting sheltered and unsheltered homeless people.
Each meeting is facilitated by a committee of currently and formerly homeless community members and Coalition staff, who together lead the group in discussions about topics relevant to the members’ needs, such as Department of Homeless Services policies and procedures, voting rights, and ways to cope with the trauma of being homeless.
The group reviews issues they have experienced in the shelters. As the court- and City Hall-appointed independent monitor of the City’s shelter system, the Coalition is responsible for making sure shelters are responsive to residents’ needs. CAG both informs this work and enables Coalition staff to help residents advocate for themselves by empowering them with information and education.
Outside of the meetings, CAG also plays a central role in the Coalition’s advocacy efforts with CAG members joining the Coalition at news conferences, rallies, and marches – even traveling to Albany to challenge government and social policies.
CAG meetings are scheduled for the third Tuesday of every month, and may meet virtually or in person. Should you or a person you support be interested in joining a meeting, you can do so by registering for our virtual CAG meetings using this link or emailing us at CAG@cfthomeless.org.
