One of the most effective steps which can be taken towards minimizing homelessness is providing more affordable housing.  In order to do so, there must be federal spending for housing. The low income housing plan provides government funding, making living in a home more affordable for the poor and homeless.  Over the years, cities and advocacy groups have tried to improve the overall conditions for the homeless. The system for doing so, however, is inherently flawed. Many homeless are driven away by the conditions and environments in shelters, so much they are willing to risk their lives out on the streets in the middle of winter, rather than stay in provided housing.

 Below is a list of recommendations and resources that will help homeless people in need.

• Homeless – Homeless Person Outreach Assistance Call 311 – nyc.gov
• Food Pantry or Soup Kitchen where people can get food nyc.gov
• NYC Public Library has free access to the computers and references
• New York Human Resources Administration (Food Assistance and Emergency Rental Assistance)

NYC.gov offers a pamphlet that has information on the various types of services for people in need.  The NYC Department of Human resources administration offer assistance in the areas of supplemental nutrition assistance program and food services, temporary cash assistance, career services, homelessness prevention, energy assistance, health insurance, domestic violence services, HIV/AIDS services, Adult protective services, home care/long term care, child support enforcement services.  The telephone number to call is Call 311 or (718)557-1399.

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