Joint Statement from Legal Aid, Coalition for the Homeless on the City’s Newly Announced Response and Relief Centers for Asylum Seekers

(NEW YORK, NY) – The Legal Aid Society and Coalition for the Homeless issued the following statement in response to the City’s newly announced response and relief centers for asylum seekers:

“We have asked the City a series of questions about this proposal and await their responses.

However, we are deeply concerned with any scenario in which families with children would be relegated to congregate settings. This practice, which has been widely condemned for its adverse and dangerous impact on this uniquely vulnerable population, is already subject to legal prohibitions.

That said, we remain willing to work with the City on a viable solution that satisfies New York’s legal and moral obligation to provide safe and adequate shelter to all who seek it, including asylum seekers.”