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National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI):NAMI is a mental health organization that provides support, coping strategies, and practical information regarding mental illness. |
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The New York Center for Children:The center provides trauma-focused therapy services to victims of child abuse and their families, free of charge. Learn more about NYCC by visiting newyorkcenterforchildren.org. Non Emergency Help Parent Helpline 800-342-7472. |
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Mount Sinai Outpatient Mental Health Services:Mental health services by credentialed clinicians that help your children through Child Adolescent and Family Services
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Updated on October 16, 2024
Intake shelters will do their best to place these clients in a TGNC-coded unit. For a list of LGBTQ+ shelter centers please read below.
The Ali Forney Center is dedicated to providing support for LGBTQ youth who are experiencing homelessness and helping them develop the skills necessary for independent living.
Their 24-hour Drop-In Center is located in a convenient location near public transportation in Midtown Manhattan, and it offers access to essential resources such as food, medical care, mental health services, and more for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning youth.
An Emergency Housing Program is also offered in Queens and Brooklyn for LGBTQ+ youths. However, due to high demand, there is a long waiting list. Housing is not immediately available, with a wait time of approximately two weeks for ages 16-20 and up to six months for ages 21-24.
For further information, please visit the website: www.aliforneycenter.org. Contact them via phone at (212) 222-3427 ext. 300.
Destination Tomorrow (DT) is an LGBT Center located in the Bronx. It offers direct services to the community and focuses on economic empowerment.
DT provides free GED courses, job readiness training, professional development, life skills, and financial literacy programs. Additionally, it offers housing for migrant individuals and special LBTQ populations.
Their migrant housing facilities are located in Long Island City and Chinatown and house over 1,000 invidividuals.
Their SWITCH program provides a 90-day housing program for TGNCGNB (transgender, gender non-conforming, and gender non-binary) individuals who have experienced domestic and sexual violence, been victims of sex trafficking crimes, or are currently participating in or have participated in sex work.
For further information, please visit the website: www.destinationtomorrow.org/housing-programs or contact them by phone at (646) 723-3325 or via email at info@destinationtomorrow.org.
Updated on October 10, 2024
Many places of worship in New York City serve as shelters. They usually have a capacity of 20 people and are only open at night.
Find a faith-based shelter at www.emergencyshelternetwork.org/our-shelters.
Respite Centers welcome single adults and adult families. Please note that families with minor children will not be assigned to a respite shelter.
These centers are usually located in repurposed office buildings, churches, or schools. Residents are provided with a cot, blanket, meals, and access to a bathroom. It’s important to mention that respite centers offer fewer services than long-term shelters.
For locations of specific locations, please visit this link: www.nyc.gov/site/doh/health/health-topics/crisis-emergency-services-respite-centers.page.
At the shelter, sleeping spaces will be shared with other individuals, but families with minors have access to private rooms or cubicles for their comfort and privacy. In addition to accommodation, HERRCs offer meals, laundry services, healthcare, relocation support, and case management to assist individuals and families. The locations of HERRC shelters are provided upon request after a new arrival at the Roosevelt Hotel. Some of the HERRC locations include:
Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Updated on October 7, 2024.
The Arrival Center at the Roosevelt Hotel
45 E 45th Street, New York, NY, 10017.
Open 24 hours per day, including weekends and holidays.
When you first arrive in New York City as a New Arrival, visit the Arrival Center. There, they will help you find shelter in NYC or in your city of choice. Please note, new arrivals cannot choose their shelter placement. The Arrival Center will help you pay for transportation and tickets.
If desired, they can also help you enroll in health insurance and school, as well as access medical assistance or mental health services. Single adult new arrivals under 23 can stay in their initial shelter placement for up to 60 days, while new arrivals over age 23 can stay in their initial shelter placement for up to 30 days before requesting an extension of their placement.
Living Room
800 Baretto Street, Bronx, NY 10474.
(718) 893- 3606.
Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including holidays.
In-person services include laundry and showers; nutrition; housing placement and benefits assistance; drug and alcohol treatment referrals; medical and psychiatric care; medication monitoring; Nutrional assistance; substance abuse counseling
Main Chance
120 East 32nd Street, New York, NY 10016.
212-883-0680.
Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including holidays.
In-person services include emergency overnight shelter; medical care; social work; nutrition.
Olivieri Center for Homeless
257 West 30th Street (between 7th Avenue and 8th Avenue).
212-947-3211.
Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including holidays.
In-person services include meals, access to showers and restrooms, clothing, case management, mental health and rehabilitation services, housing placement assistance, and referral to an emergency respite center.
The Gathering Place
2402 Atlantic Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11233
718-385-8713.
Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including holidays.
In person services include three meals a day; shower/laundry and access to clothing; mail and phone services; therapeutic recreational activities; case management services/benefits assistance; medical/mental health services and referrals to treatment resources.
Breaking Ground
100-32 Atlantic Avenue (at 102 Street), Jamaica, NY 11416
Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including holidays.
In person services include nutritious meals; showers and bathrooms; laundry; medical and psychiatric services; case management and benefits assistance; assistance with housing.
Project Hospitality
150 Richmond Terrace, Staten Island, NY, 10301.
718-720-0079.
Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including holidays.
In person services include assistance with benefits; 3 meals/day; laundry and showers; referrals; assistance with housing; arranges referrals to overnight faith-based shelters.
Updated on October 7, 2024
In order to access the NYC shelter system, adults must apply for shelter at a designated intake center, and do the same for their children. Single men and single women will go to different shelter intake locations. Individuals can stay at an intake center for up to 30 days without needing to provide an application or proof of eligibility. Following an interview, the intake center will decide on the appropriate shelter plan.
The intake center will need to see documents verifying your identity and your need for shelter to confirm your eligibility for shelter. Below are the recommended documents to bring to the shelter intake process. Dial “311” to access the NYC emergency shelter hotline and for any questions related to the shelter intake process.
You can schedule an appointment for an interview with your shelter if you wish to extend your stay at the shelter. You are eligible to extent your stay as a new arrival at a shelter if:
*PRUCOL refers to a residency status in New York City for individuals who are not U.S. citizens but have been permitted to stay in the U.S. by the Department of Homeland Security. This status is important as it makes individuals eligible for public benefits, such as Medicaid. It’s worth noting that PRUCOL is not officially recognized as an immigration status by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
There are a variety of shelters NYC residents can go to. See a list of shelter types below.
For a list of additional shelters go to www.coalitionforthehomeless.org/get-help/i-need-shelter.
The Legal Aid NYC
Legal Aid NYC is a non-profit organization offering legal assistance to individuals in New York City. What sets it apart from other organizations is its provision of support for criminal matters (wrongful convictions, appeals, clemency, and sealing), which similar organizations do not commonly offer.
Reach their Legal Aid staff members by calling 212-577-3300. Learn more about Legal Aid NYC services at https://legalaidnyc.org/get-help.
Neighborhood Defenders NDS
NDS is an innovative, community-based, holistic public defense practice in Northern Manhattan. It offers pre-arrest services and criminal, family, and immigration services as well.
If you ever need help with any criminal law issues, please call (212) 876-5500. The awesome work of detectives allows NDS lawyers to support their clients strongly.
You can also check out more about what they do by visiting their website at https://neighborhooddefender.org/services/criminal-defense.
Brooklyn Defenders (BDS)
Brooklyn Defender Services is a non-profit law firm that helps people accused of crimes. If the police are looking for someone you know and believe they will be arrested or if someone you know was arrested in the last 24 hours, call Brooklyn Defenders at 718-254-0700 for legal assistance.
Brooklyn Defender Services has social workers, investigators, and paralegals who prepare cases for trial, investigate plea deals to lower fines, and advise clients diligently. Learn more by visiting their website at https://bds.org/get-help.
Bronx Defenders
The Bronx Defenders, a legal aid organization based in the South Bronx, provides a range of services to clients and community members.
If police or a child welfare agency have called you and you don’t have a lawyer, call the Bronx Defenders’ legal emergency hotline at 347-778-1266 for legal help. You can also visit their office at 360 161st Street, Bronx, New York. Learn more about their services by visiting their website at https://www.bronxdefenders.org/clients-community/help.
USEFUL RESOURCES
• Information on pending criminal cases, including court dates, charges, and more:
https://iapps.courts.state.ny.us/webcrim_attorney/AttorneyWelcome
• To find someone in New York City jails:
https://www.nyc.gov/site/doc/inmate-info/inmate-lookup.page
• To find someone in New York State facilities:
https://nysdoccslookup.doccs.ny.gov
Updated on May 29, 2024
NYC Care is not health insurance. It’s a guaranteed healthcare access program provided by NYC Health + Hospitals for uninsured New Yorkers. Similar to health insurance, NYC Care offers a membership card, a regular doctor, high-quality customer service, affordable prescriptions, and more. You won’t have to deal with any membership fees, monthly fees, or premiums. Your payments will align with your budget.
Call (646) 692-2273 for further information and to apply to NYC Care.
Updated on July 29, 2024
Look for barrier-free parks with fewer tripping hazards and fenced-in playgrounds in your area. These can be enjoyable places for playing and making new friends.
For a list of neurodiverse-friendly venues to go, please read below.
NYC parks have inclusive play elements that offer social, cognitive, sensory, and motor activities for children with special needs. The parks are free to visit.
Visit this link to filter parks in NYC by borough, accessible features, and sensory-friendly resources: www.nycgovparks.org/facilities/playgrounds
For neurodiverse children, selected NYC parks may offer:
NYC Parks offers a variety of public programs. Some are available during the summer, and others are available year-round. Learn more information here: www.nycgovparks.org/programs
An example of a program is the Sponsored Learning Program at Flushing Meadows Corona Park. This program includes hands-on activities to teach kids about conservation. Examples are “Garden Nature” and “Nature Crafts.” There is also an After-School Program available.
To get additional information, call (718) 760- 6565 or visit www.nycgovparks.org/contact-parks
The Adaptive Swim Program for People with Disabilities is a session-based series of classes. The program offers children and adults aquatic exercise programs and swim instruction at pools in NYC parks led by Aquatic Specialists.
Session starting dates vary by season. Check out each session date at www.nycgovparks.org/events/adaptive-aquatics.
To participate in the program, you must register for a placement lottery. For this:
The Outdoors for Autism program is an annual free event sponsored by INCLUDEnyc. Neurodiverse children from 0 to 18 and their families are welcome. The event occurs on a Sunday afternoon in June every year at 1055 Jerome Ave, Bronx, NY 10452.
Outdoors for Autism has plenty of fun activities which include:
Attending the event is free, but you should register to confirm your attendance. Visit includenyc.org/events/outdoors-for-autism and register in Early Spring. For more information, please visit includenyc.org/events/outdoors-for-autism or contact INCLUDEnyc at (217) 677-4600.
Achilles International is a program that uses athletics to help people with disabilities. Their offerings include training, race chances, and school-based initiatives for impaired children.
To register, visit www.achillesinternational.org/achilles-kids.
Call (212) 354-0300 or contact info@achillesinternational.org if you have any questions.
NYC has many world-renowned museums to visit, all offering tailored programs and events for families and children with ASD. All the programs listed below are free of charge.
The Lincoln Center is a performing arts center in NYC that offers free special events for children, teens, and adults with disabilities.
The Passport to the Arts program gives families access to interactive workshops and virtual events at various venues, such as the Lincoln Center, the New York City Ballet, The Metropolitan Opera, the New York Philharmonic, and the Chamber Music Society.
For information about upcoming events or performances, you must sign up online at lincolncenter.org/series/accessibility-at-lincoln-center/s/Passport%20to%20the%20Arts.
To register for “Passport to the Arts” do the following:
Learn more about the Passport to the Arts schedule and accommodation by emailing access@LincolnCenter.org or calling (212) 875 5375.
For general information, visit lincolncenter.org/series/accessibility-at-lincoln-center/s/Passport%20to%20the%20Arts.
Relaxed Performances are open to all but designed for people with autism, sensory and communication disorders, or learning disabilities.
The piece’s artistic integrity remains unchanged; however, modifications to the social and sensory environment may be made. This structure can also be beneficial for neurodivergent people, families with young children, and anyone who finds traditional performance protocols do not work for their needs.
For more information about upcoming relaxed performances and to reserve or purchase tickets, please visit www.lincolncenter.org/series/accessibility-at-lincoln-center/s/Relaxed%20Performances
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, colloquially known as “The Met,” offers almost 5,000 years of art worldwide for everyone to see and enjoy. It is next to Central Park on the east side. Find tactile opportunities and art-making activities for your children with the “Discoveries” workshops throughout the year.
“Discoveries” welcomes children of all ages, but it recommends that children ages 3–11 attend. Workshop topics and activities include art making with paintings, music, sculptures, etc. Materials are provided at no cost.
Remember that admission to the museum is free for children under 12, with an adult and a caregiver accompanying a disabled visitor.
For information on upcoming workshops, go to www.metmuseum.org/events/programs/access/visitors-with-developmental-and-learning-disabilities. Remember that some events are drop-in, while others require reservations. Participation in all workshops is first come, first served, and space is limited.
Going to a Discoveries Program at The Metropolitan Museum of Art – www.metmuseum.org/-/media/files/events/programs/progs-for-visitors-with-disabilities/social-narrative-discoveries.pdf
To visit art exhibitions and plan for an enjoyable visit, check out these useful resources www.metmuseum.org/events/programs/access/visitors-with-developmental-and-learning-disabilities/for-visitors-with-autism-spectrum-disorders.
For further questions or inquiries, visit metmuseum.org/learn/accessibility.
The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is an art museum on the east side of Midtown Manhattan, New York. It is home to the world’s greatest modern and contemporary art collection.
Create Ability is a series of events open to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, their families, and friends to appreciate and create art together.
Each event explores a different theme through engaging activities in the Museum’s galleries and classrooms. MoMa has a sensory map and social guide available at www.moma.org/visit/accessibility.
Create Ability is offered free of charge. The program occurs on the first Sunday of every month, with a few exceptions. Space is limited, and pre-registration is required. Registration opens one month before the program date. For more information, email AccessPrograms@moma.org or call Access Programs at 212-408-6447.
To receive program updates, go to www.moma.org/visit/accessibility/create-ability-contact-form and complete the form.
To find general information about MoMa events, visit www.moma.org/calendar.
The Intrepid Museum is a museum dedicated to American military and maritime history. It is at Pier 86 on 46th Street, along the Hudson River.
The museum provides free programs and events for people with developmental disabilities, sensory impairments, or autism, and their families. This includes family-led museum tours and art-making activities.
Check out the available programs below:
It takes place on select Sundays during regular Museum hours. Families can take a guided museum tour and participate in art-making activities that everyone can enjoy. Events alternate between virtual and onsite programs. Check out the calendar for upcoming events at intrepidmuseum.org/access-program-events.
Available for children with autism between the ages of 3 and 18. It operates early in the morning before the museum opens to the public! Families receive a sensory bag with interactive activities designed for the whole family and explore the Museum without the crowds. Participants receive a social narrative ahead of time. Check out the calendar for upcoming events at intrepidmuseum.org/access-program-events.
This is for teens and adults with autism or other sensory disabilities and their families and friends after the museum closes to the public! Participants receive a social narrative ahead of time. Check out the calendar for upcoming events at intrepidmuseum.org/access-program-events.
The Jewish Museum is an art museum and repository of cultural artifacts located at 1109 Fifth Avenue.
The museum offers diverse exhibitions and programs and maintains a unique collection of nearly 30,000 works of art, ceremonial objects, and media reflecting the global Jewish experience over more than 4,000 years.
The museum offers a program called ‘Access Family Workshops’ for children and adults who have developmental or learning disabilities, free of charge. Workshops include gallery activities and an art project.
To register:
Learn more at thejewishmuseum.org/programs/visitors-with-disabilities#learning. For more information or to register for a workshop, please call (212) 423-3289 or email access@thejm.org.
The American Museum of Natural History is a natural history museum on the Upper West Side of Manhattan in New York City. It has more than 40 galleries exploring the natural world. Caregivers accompanying visitors with disabilities receive complimentary Museum admission.
The Discovery Squad is a one-of-a-kind tour program at the American Museum of Natural History intended specifically for families with autism spectrum disorders. On select Sunday mornings, families can join a 40-minute tour guided by professionally qualified tour guides, followed by exploring activities connected to the Museum halls before the Museum opens to the public. Tours are open to children aged 5 to 14 with autism spectrum disorders, who an adult must accompany.
To register, please email accessibility@amnh.org or call (212) 769-5200. To learn when tours are scheduled, visit their website at www.amnh.org/plan-your-visit.
Get additional information at www.amnh.org/plan-your-visit/tours.
Extreme Kids Clubs are weekly social groups for neurodiverse youth in New York City. Clubs emphasize confidence building, problem-solving, artistic expression, and social-emotional growth.
Clubs focus on arts, culinary skills, gaming, anime, and photography.
Many clubs are free, while others charge fees, allowing families to engage in programs while maintaining high-quality services and resources. Families select their own tier, with the Connector tier most closely representing program costs.
Clubs are offered in sessions of 8 weeks (about 2 months) by season. Club venues include the Brower Park Branch of the Brooklyn Children’s Museum and the Oversea Mission Church in Chinatown.
For information about session dates, go to www.extremekidsandcrew.org/clubs. To join a club, visit www.extremekidsandcrew.org/clubs. For more information, call (347) 410-6050 or email info@extremekidsandcrew.org.
To learn about other programs by Extreme Kids & Crew, visit www.extremekidsandcrew.org.
DMF is a non-profit music school in East Harlem that gives people of all abilities the tools they need to improve as musicians, be creative, and thrive in a community. The foundation offers a variety of free classes and events, both online and in-person.
Examples of classes and events are:
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out for information about tailored programming that may benefit your child by contacting info@danielsmusic.org or calling (212) 289-8912.
For additional details about the different classes and events that DMF offers and to access information on registration, please visit their website at www.danielsmusic.org/music-programs.
Updated on July 19, 2024
The Team Little Shop of Kindness (TTLCNYC) is a “shop” that provides clothing and toiletries free of charge to asylum seekers. Find the TTLNYC shop inside the Avenue Church Building at 1745 FIRST AVENUE, AT 90TH STREET, 3RD FLOOR. Asylum seekers must have an “A” alien number when visiting.
The shop is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday. Guests can choose clothing and supplies for free, but you’ll need to make a reservation through this link: www.ttlcnyc.org. This will ensure access to clothing, shoes, toiletries, and other essentials.
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to infoteamtlcnyc@gmail.com. For more details, take a look at www.ttlcnyc.org.
The Bowery Mission, located at Bowery Campus 227, provides food and clothing services free of charge to individuals of all ages.
No ID or referral letter is required to access this service. The Bowery Mission is open only on Mondays for women, who must arrive at 8 a.m. Only the first ten women are served for clothing services. Men can come from Wednesday through Friday and must arrive at 8 a.m. The first 20 men who arrive are served.
For questions and concerns, call 212-226-6214 or visit www.bowery.org.
The Samaritan’s Closet is a clothing Pantry at St. James Church at 865 Madison Avenue, New York, NY, 10021. It is open only on Sundays from 12-3 pm. For questions, please call 212-774-4200 or contact stjamesChurch@stjames.org.
The Prodigal Center provides clothing free of charge to individuals in need. Find the Prodigal Center at 709 Tiffany Street, Bronx, New York 10474.
No ID is required to access this service. Sign-in is requested with a number in households. The Prodigal Center is open on Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Thursdays by appointment. You must arrive by 10 a.m. to access it.
For further questions or concerns, call 718-644-8523 for an English speaker or 917-626-2099 for a Spanish speaker. Or visit theprodigalcenter.org.
St. Mary’s Clothing Drive is a pick-up clothing service located at 230 Classon Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11205. The drive is open on Monday-Friday from 8 am-4 pm. A referral letter from a shelter is required to access this service or an ID if you have one.
For questions, call 718-529-6070 or contact contact@stmarysclothingdrive.com.
Updated on August 2, 2024
That’s when you rent a house or apartment from someone else, not the government. You are the tenant in a private property, and the owner is the lessor.
Action steps to report damage or living conditions issues:
1. Contact your super and/or landlord about the needed repair, either directly or with the management company.
2. If your superintendent or building management company is not responsive, write a letter to the owner of the building. For assistance with writing a letter to your landlord, refer to the template provided below.
Date
Landlord Name
Landlord Address
Landlord City, State and ZIP Code
Re: Address of the Property
Dear [Landlord’s Name]
On [date], the [short description of the problem]. I notified you of the problem by phone on [date]. You informed me [resolution suggested by the landlord].
Please consider this letter as a follow-up to my initial telephone call informing you of the problem and a confirmation of your promise to remedy the situation by [date].
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Name]
3. If the problem is still not fixed, file a complaint with the NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) by calling 3-1-1. Follow up your case online at
hpdonline.nyc.gov/hpdonline
4. If maintenance problems are severe, consider filing an HP Action in Housing Court. Learn how at nycourts.gov/courts/nyc/housing/startinghp.shtml.
Justfix.nyc is a valuable and secure tool for tenants to use when requesting repairs from their landlord. The platform enables tenants to send a formal letter via USPS Certified Mail, ensuring that the request is both official and documented. Additionally, the service follows up with the tenant to verify whether the landlord has addressed the issue. To access these benefits, simply create a password-protected account with your first and last name, address, lease type, and phone number.
Visit justfix.org to create an account, and address a repair request to your landlord.
If your apartment is rent-stabilized and the problem is not fixed, file a complaint about maintenance issues online with the NYS Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) at rent.hcr.ny.gov/RentConnect/Tenant/DecreasedServicesOverview.
1. If you live in a New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) property, call the NYCHA Customer Contact Center Report at 718-707-7771 or create a maintenance ticket at my.nycha.info/MyNYCHA.
Have in hand the following information before your call:
► Your name, address, telephone number, and the name of your development
► The location of the emergency (if it applies): apartment, lobby, hallway, stairwell, etc.
► The floors affected
► When and how the problem began
► Previous work ticket number (if applicable)
2. If your superintendent or building management company is not responsive, consider asking your doctor for a letter of advocacy. Your doctor can find useful templates at nyscheck.org/clinician_letters.
3. If maintenance problems are severe, consider obtaining services from a non-profit legal organization to get repairs done. For example, Legal Services NYC offer free services to the community at legalservicesnyc.org. You can also call 311 and ask for the “Tenant Helpline”.
Learn more at nyc/gov/hpd.
Updated on March 14, 2024
Domestic violence shelter locations are confidential (no one will be able to find you). Shelters provide services to help you and your children, including counseling, obtaining court and domestic violence documents, and help finding permanent housing.
*You must follow the shelter’s rules and curfews to help ensure the safety of all residents.*
Please find below city and community options to get emergency shelter.
The Department of Homeless Services (DHS) administers city shelters for families with children and adults without children. Families and individuals in immediate need of shelter can attend the following intake centers in person 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Shelters for Families with Children and Individuals
• Families with Children Under 21 and Pregnant Women should go to:
The PATH intake center is at 151 East 151st Street in the Bronx. Click here for more information on the PATH intake center in the Bronx.
• Single Adults should go to:
One of the Single Men/Women’s Assessment Centers.
There are two intake centers for single women:
— HELP Women’s Shelter at 116 Williams Avenue, Brooklyn (between Liberty Avenue and Glenmore Avenue)
— The Franklin Shelter at 1122 Franklin Avenue, Bronx (near East 166th Street)
— There is one intake center for single men
30th Street Intake Center in Manhattan at 400-430 East 30th Street (near 1st Avenue).
The maximum stay is 180 days.
Shelters for Adult Families
Adult Families (no children under 21 in the household) should go to: the Adult Family Intake Center at 400-430 East 30th Street (near 1st Avenue) in Manhattan. There is no maximum stay as long as a household is actively looking for housing.
Victims seeking shelter should identify themselves as victims of domestic abuse and request a specific domestic violence screening from the NoVA (No Violence Again) Unit.
NoVA can suggest general shelters in secure city locations far from the abuse or assist families and individuals in obtaining entry to the private domestic violence shelter system. Access NoVA information at https://www.nyc.gov/site/dhs/prevention/domestic-violence.page.
For more information about DHS shelters, visit DHS’s website at https://www.nyc.gov/site/dhs/shelter/shelter.page.
Sanctuary for Families
Advocates at Sanctuary for Families help stop gender violence by giving members of the community counseling, legal help, and a safe place to stay. if you need support with housing, counseling, legal assistance, or managing your finances, reach out to (212) 349-6009 to speak with an advocate.
The service is open from 9 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday. You can leave a text message at any other time.
Anti-Violence Project (AVP)
VIP runs a bilingual (English/Spanish) Helpline in New York City from 9 AM to 11 PM, Monday through Friday. Targeting their services, especially to the expanding Hispanic communities in the NYC region, their advocates offer over-the-phone counseling, safety planning, information about emergency shelters, and referrals to other community-based social service providers.
If you need help, call their helpline at 1-800-664-5880 or visit https://www.vipmujeres.org/get-help to learn more.
Garden of Hope
Especially aiming its services to the expanding Chinese communities in the NYC area, Garden of Hope is committed to supporting, caring for, and rebuilding the lives of people who have been exposed to domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking.
If you need help or support, contact their Helpline at 1-877-990-8595. Counselors and case managers fluent in Mandarin, Cantonese, Taiwanese, and Fujianese. All their services are completely FREE and CONFIDENTIAL. To learn more about Garden of Hope shelters and services, visit https://gohny.org/services.
Woman Kind
Womankind, an organization focused on supporting survivors, provides vital resources and cultural expertise to help Asian-descent victims of domestic violence, human trafficking, and sexual assault find refuge, recovery, and renewal.
Woman Kind manages the only two New York State-licensed culturally and language-equipped shelters for pan-Asian domestic and sexual assault survivors for 90 days. For information and help, call their Helpline 1 888-888-7702. Visit to learn more https://www.iamwomankind.org/our-services.
Sakhi South Asian Survivors
Sakhi is a community group that provides social services to survivors of South Asian and Indo-Caribbean culture, including people from Bangladesh, the Caribbean, India, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. Depending on your situation and where you live, you may be eligible to receive crisis intervention, psychological counseling, financial aid, and housing assistance to help you recover and become self-sufficient.
If you ever need immediate assistance, don’t hesitate to call their helpline at (212) 868-6741 or text (305) 204-1809. The staff at Sakhi are fluent in a diverse range of South Asian languages and are there to support you. Learn more by visiting their website at https://sakhi.org/get-help.
Updated on May 29, 2024
In the eyes of the law, a victim of domestic violence is anyone over the age of sixteen, married people, parents with a child or children under the age of 18, or parents who are victims of a crime and were hurt physically or emotionally by a family member or roommate.
The following are examples of intimate relationships:
Married and divorced couples, domestic partnerships, same-sex couples, dating couples, people who have children in common (including adopted children), people who are unrelated but have lived together for an extended period, family members who are related by blood, and family members who are related by marriage.
When someone reports domestic violence, they may make allegations such as:
Physical and sexual assault, physical restraint or imprisonment, threats of violence, psychological threats, threats of economic abuse, verbal abuse and intimidation, stalking, and harassment.
These are the most often brought criminal charges when someone is accused of domestic abuse:
Assault, Menacing, Stalking, Strangulation, Criminal Obstruction of Breathing, Harassment and Criminal Contempt
USEFUL RESOURCES
• NY Senate Definitions
https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/SOS/459-A
• NYC Courts
https://www.nycourts.gov/CourtHelp/Safety/DVbasics.shtml
Consider calling the police if you are a victim of domestic violence and are being:
– Physically or sexually abused
– Restrained or jailed
– Threatened with violence
– Psychologically threatened
– Threatened with economic abuse
– Verbally abused and intimidated
– Stalked, or harassed
These kinds of abuse are against the law.
The city’s law enforcement can support you in getting a protective order and can take action against the abuser if a crime has been committed. Contact the NY Police Department at 646-610-5000.
If you are considering reporting your case to the police, it’s important to be prepared for the process. When reaching out to them, it’s helpful to know what to expect. To learn how to report your case, visit https://www.nycourts.gov/LegacyPDFS/FORMS/familycourt/pdfs/8-1.pdf. Remember to stay strong and know that support is available to you.
If you are a victim of domestic violence, you have the right to file a petition for an order of protection.
Filing an Order of Protection with Family Court
With this order, the person who hurt you is not allowed to touch or approach you anymore. An order of protection can help you settle other issues, like child support and custody.
To get an order of protection, start by filing a family offense petition with the Family Court clerk. You can get help from an advocate, or you can do it on your own.
Check out this document to see how you can obtain an order of protection at Family Court:
https://herjustice.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Orders-of-protection-PDF.pdf. To locate a Family Court, go to: https://ww2.nycourts.gov/COURTS/nyc/family/index.shtml
Order of Protection from Criminal Court
Should your abuser find themselves arrested for a crime involving domestic violence, a District Attorney’s Office court will issue an order of protection for you while the abuser is under custody. This will last until the criminal case ends. The criminal court will issue this order even if you requested one in Family Court.
Considering the above, you can have an order of protection from both the Criminal and Family Court. However, if you are divorcing your spouse, you must obtain a protective order from the Supreme Court as part of your divorce proceedings.
USEFUL RESOURCES
• NYS Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence
https://opdv.ny.gov/orders-protection
• Manhattan’s District Attorney
https://manhattanda.org/order-protection/
• Orders of Protection
https://herjustice.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Orders-of-protection-PDF.pdf
• Mental Health Support
Voces Latinas (Hispanic Community)
Helpline (718) 593-4528
https://www.voceslatinas.org/domestic-violence
Violence Intervention Program (Hispanic Community)
Helpline 1-800-664-5880.
https://www.vipmujeres.org/get-help
Garden of Hope (Chinese Community)
Helpline 1-877-990-8595
https://gohny.org/services
Arab-American Family Support Center
Main Number (718) 643 – 8000
https://www.aafscny.org/our-priorities/preventharm
Sakhi for South Asian Survivors
Helpline (212) 868-6741
https://sakhi.org/get-help
Anti-violence Project (LGBTQ & HIV-affected survivors)
Hotline (212-714-1141)
https://avp.org/get-help/get-support
Neighborhood Defenders NDS
NDS is an innovative, community-based, holistic public defense practice in Northern Manhattan. NDS helps children and youth between the ages of 7 and 18 who are accused of a crime, whether they are being tried as adults in the Supreme Court or as juveniles in the Family Court.
Access legal counsel by calling the NDS helpline at 212-876-5550. Learn by visiting NDS’s Youth Law Practice at https://neighborhooddefender.org/services/youth-law.
Para español, visite https://neighborhooddefender.org/services/espanol.
1. Contact your local legal services group. Some New York examples are Legal Aid Society, NYLAG, and LSNYC.
2. Your local Bar Association can assist you in choosing a lawyer. If you’re poor, a lawyer can aid for free. However, hiring a divorce lawyer takes time.
3. The court must provide a lawyer if your divorce involves child support, visitation, or an Order of Protection. Ask the judge for a free lawyer. This divorce lawyer handles this part. They can only assist with custody, visitation, or protection.
These steps can help you get a divorce without a fight if you don’t want to hire a lawyer: http://ww2.nycourts.gov/divorce/divorce_withchildrenunder21.shtml.
To get a hard copy, go to the Matrimonial Support Office at the Supreme Court in the borough where you live. Ask for the details and forms for an uncontested divorce.
Resources
Legal Information Guide about Divorce by HER JUSTICE
https://herjustice.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Divorce-2020.pdf
Updated on May 29, 2024
Family Legal Care
Family Legal Care is a community organization that supports NYC residents with the tools, resources, and legal advice they need while fulfilling their family obligations. Their lawyers give people timely, detailed legal advice and help with their case plans. Among other things, they assist with filling out petitions, advise on what to say to the judge, and help with the next steps in a case—all types of services.
Contact their helpline at (212) 313-1122 English and Spanish bilingual advocates. Receive family law information, referrals, and appointments with our staff attorneys for in-depth case support. Learn more about their educational and legal services at https://familylegalcare.org.
Updated on May 29, 2024
FHEPS provides rental housing support specifically for families with a minor who are receiving cash assistance. It may cover your rent debt without needing repayment. It’s important to remember that families eligible for FHEPS may not qualify for other city housing subsidy programs.
Requirements
You must have a child under the age of 18 in your household and an active Cash Assistance (CA) case.
Application
To access FHEPS, you’ll need to reach out to a qualified center such as HomeBase. Only HomeBase centers are able to process CityFHEPS applications to move and to stay.
You can find a list of HomeBase centers at www.nyc.gov/site/hra/help/homebase-locations.page. These centers are very busy, so if you can’t get an appointment right away, don’t be disheartened. Keep persisting, and you’ll eventually secure an appointment. Remember that wait times for appointments can be quite lengthy, often stretching until six months.
Household Share Letter and Shopping Letter
If you want to keep living in your current home, you will get a Household Share Letter. If you are looking for a new place, you will receive a Shopping Letter. If you plan to stay where you are for now but want to move later, you can ask for both letters.
This Shopping Letter serves as a helpful tool when speaking with potential landlords or working with a broker to find a new home. Once you have the letter, you can begin your housing search. It’s up to you to find and secure your new place.
It’s also important to remember that if HomeBase agrees to pay your overdue rent, you will NOT have to repay the amount provided to cover the past due rent. If otherwise, you apply to other similar programs like Community CityFHEPS, you would have to repay the debt covered. For further questions or concerns about FHEPS, visit www.nyc.gov/assets/hra/downloads/pdf/cityfheps-documents/DSS-7n-(E).pdf.
When you find housing, please inform your housing specialist or case manager at HomeBase. They will assist you in submitting the required documents. This will help Department of Social Services (DSS) to determine your eligibility and ensure that your housing meets the program’s requirements.
How much CityFHEPS will pay depends on household income, number of people in the household, number of rooms in the apartment, utilities, and program rent levels. For more information about how much FHEPS will cover, talk to your assigned FHEPS case manager.
CityFHEPS is a rental housing subsidy for some NYC residents facing eviction. It can help pay a portion of your rent and any rental arrears that have built up over time. Arrear payments with CityFHEPS are loans. Rental subsidies can be renewed for up to 4 years more.
Requirements
To qualify:
Household must be at risk of homelessness and meet of the following:
In addition, the household must have an income at 200% of the federal poverty line and have at least one household member who is a US citizen or resident. All the above is not an exhaustive list of requirements; for a complete list of requirements go to www.nyc.gov/assets/hra/downloads/pdf/cityfheps-documents/dss-7r-e.pdf.
There is no specific limit on the amount of rent debt, but any case involving an amount over $20,000 needs to be justified. Offering a comprehensive explanation for larger amounts is always advantageous, particularly when combining charitable or client funds.
Regarding income, all adults in the household must have income and support their children; no exceptions. If the adults do not have income, they must apply for cash assistance, and their children must be part of the case unless they receive SSI, foster care, or adoption subsidies.
Application
To access the CityFHEPS program, you’ll need to reach out to a qualified center such as HomeBase. Only HomeBase centers are able to process CityFHEPS applications to move and to stay.
You can find a list of HomeBase centers at www.nyc.gov/site/hra/help/homebase-locations.page. These centers are very busy, so don’t get discouraged if you can’t get an appointment right away. Some centers have just 10 walk-ins and others have a wait time of months to make an appointment.
Once you are at a Homebase office, a caseworker will collect the information needed by Department of Social Services (DSS) to assess your potential eligibility for CityFHEPS. The caseworker may refer you to apply for other public benefits, including federal and state rental assistance programs.
If trying to move to a new place, HomeBase may take up to three months to get a rental voucher or “shopping letter”. This letter lets you search for a new apartment or room to rent. It’s valid until its expiration date, even if your case was closed at HomeBase. If you are interested in moving to other counties in NY State CityFHEPS vouchers can be used.
Household Share Letter and Shopping Letter
If you want to keep living in your current home, you’ll receive a Household Share Letter, and if you’re looking for a new place, you’ll get a Shopping Letter. If you’d like to stay where you are for now but plan to move later, you can request both letters. If HomeBase approves the payment of rent arrears of your apartment, you must pay back the amount given to pay the backed-up rent. Most of the CityFHEPS cases will end up in offering a voucher for a new rental home.
The Shopping Letter serves as a helpful tool when speaking with potential landlords or working with a broker to find a new home. Once you have the letter, you can begin your housing search. Just remember, it’s up to you to find and secure your new place.
When you find housing, please inform your housing specialist or case manager at HomeBase. They will assist you in submitting the required documents. This will help DSS determine your eligibility for CityFHEPS and ensure that your housing meets the program’s requirements.
How much CityFHEPS will pay depends on household income, number of people in the household, number of rooms in the apartment, utilities, and program rent levels.
Living in the Shelter System
If you or someone you know is in the shelter system and needs help with subsidized rent, the shelter will help, and you may qualify for a different type of voucher with different requirements.
For further questions or concerns about CityFHEPS, please go to https://www.healthandhousingconsortium.org or email info@hhconsortium.org. Otherwise go to www.nyc.gov/assets/hra/downloads/pdf/cityfheps-documents/DSS-7n-(E).pdf.
The One-Shot Deal is an emergency aid program intended to meet the immediate needs of low-income New Yorkers. This aid can be utilized to address a variety of scenarios, including rental assistance to prevent or postpone an eviction.
You need not be a recipient of public assistance to get an offer. Remember that most one-shot deals will have to be repaid over time with regular monthly payments.
Check out the program information at access.nyc.gov/programs/one-shot-deal.
If the program could fit your needs, apply at access.nyc.gov. In addition, on the second page of this handout, check the documents you need to submit with your application.
After all documents have been submitted, a ruling may take 30–45 days, depending on the case’s urgency. Access the HRA website at access.nyc.gov or call the HRA InfoLine at (718) 557-1399 to know if your case has been decided.
Free legal services under the Right-to-Counsel program are made available to residents of New York in any ZIP code, regardless of their immigration status. In the five boroughs, organizations offer free legal representation or guidance to tenants facing administrative eviction from the New York City Housing Authority or the Housing Court.
Call 311 and ask for the “Tenant Helpline”. Learn more at https://www.nyc.gov/site/hra/help/legal-services-for-tenants.page.
The Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8) had been suspended for several years, but a waiting list application reopened on Monday, June 3, 2024. Just a reminder, all applications closed on Sunday, June 9, 2024. If you’re on the waitlist, you may need to update or submit a complete application.
Learn more about the Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) and what you may need to do if you’re on the waitlist at “Applying for Section 8”.
Housing options for low-income renters and homeowners are available through the New York City Housing Lottery, NYC Connect. Sign up at housingconnect.nyc.gov to get on the waiting list for any developments that interest you.
Learn about the application process visiting the link housingconnect.nyc.gov/PublicWeb/about-us.
Find affordable and accessible homes and apartments across New York State at www.nyhousingsearch.gov. In the application process, your credit score may be requested.
Updated on August 12, 2024
However, sometimes you have to pay a small fee for some services, and other times you don’t have to. Under Medicaid, the most you would ever have to pay in copays in a year is $200.
Your child is eligible for Children’s Medicaid if:
• It is 1-18 years old
• It resides in NYS and is a U.S. Citizen, National, or a Non-Citizen legally admitted into the U.S
• The amount of money you make is equal or lower than on a portion of the Federal Poverty Level that is set by New York State. See if your income qualifies by checking this Glance Card.
Every year, the insurance must be renewed. See details at info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov/COVID-19-Changes. To apply go to nystateofhealth.ny.gov.
The monthly fee however is capped at three children for bigger families. Families with income above the low-income threshold for subsidies may have to pay the whole premium, which varies by health plan. In contrast, low-income households are not required to pay a premium.
One of the good things about Child Health Plus is that there are no annual deductibles. You can also sign up your kid for it at any time of the year through the NY State of Health.
Your child is eligible for Child Health Plus if:
– It is less than 19 years old
– It is not eligible for Children Medicaid
– It cannot be covered by other health insurance
– It resides in New York State, no matter its immigration status
For more information about Child Health Plus, check out this Glance Card. Every year, Child Health Plus must be renewed. See details at info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov/COVID-19-Changes.
Learn if your child qualifies for either Medicaid or Child Health Plus at health.ny.gov/health_care/child_health_plus/eligibility_and_cost. For other questions, call this toll-free number: 1-800-698-4KIDS (1-800-698-4543), and ask about Child Health Plus or Children’s Medicaid. If you are hearing impaired, call the TTY number, 1-877-898-5849.
Updated on February 27, 2024
NYC teens between 14 and 21 receive career exploration and paid work experience each summer through the nation’s biggest youth employment program, the Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP). Participants can earn money through their participation. Call 1-800-246-4646 for questions and learn how to apply at nyc.gov/syep. Applications usually close in March. Apply early!
Futures and Options provides paid, mentored internships and career readiness workshops to high school juniors and seniors. Apply by visiting futuresandoptions.org/our-programs/our-programs-internships.
The Apollo Theater Academy High School Internship Program offers paid professional development opportunities for high school students pursuing administrative, programming, and production jobs in the arts and entertainment industries. The annual deadline is in January every year. Visit www.apollotheater.org/education to learn more.
The Met offers undergraduate and graduate students paid internships that would help them gain professional experience and explore museum careers in the arts. The annual deadline is in January. Learn how to apply at metmuseum.org/about-the-met/internships/undergraduate-and-graduate-students/summer.
Tech Scholars engage 9–12 grade girls in coding through passion projects in the humanities. The program creates digital media projects that aim to have a social impact. Visit www.nyhistory.org/education to apply. Annual deadlines are usually in early May. Call (212) 873-3400 for more information.
The New York District Attorney Internship Program is a robust internship that offers students hands-on experience with the criminal justice system. Application deadlines are usually in March. For questions, inquire at highschoolinternship@dany.nyc.gov or by calling (347-417-2001). Visit manhattanda.org/careers/internship-opportunities/high-school-internship to learn more.
The Human Oncology & Pathogenesis Program (HOPP) at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center provides high school students with hands-on experience in laboratory techniques. Visit mskcc.org/education-training/high-school-college/hopp-summer-student and start an application. Yearly applications start in November. For any questions, please reach out to the HOPP Summer Student Program at HOPPSummerProgram@mskcc.org or (646) 888-2013.
The NASA Office of STEM Engagement (OSTEM) offers paid internships for high school and college students to improve science, technology, aeronautics, and space exploration. Learn more at nasa.gov/learning-resources/internship-programs.
Mt. Sinai is offering free virtual summer courses and in-person internships. For additional information, please visit https://icahn.mssm.edu/about/diversity/ceye/programs/summer or send an email to ceye@mssm.edu. The deadline for applications is in March every year.
The Ma’ayan Laboratory’s Summer Research Training Program in Biomedical Big Data Science is a ten-week research intense program for undergraduate and master’s students interested in cutting-edge biomedical data-intensive research projects. For more information, visit labs.icahn.mssm.edu/maayanlab/summer-research-program. The application deadline is in February.
Updated on February 22, 2024
Free studio art classes are available at the Cooper Union for high-schoolers (9 to 12th grade) on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. except for observed holidays. Find classes in Architecture, Digital Media/Photography, Drawing, Graphic Design, Painting, Sculpture, Senior Design Studio, and Senior Visual Art Studio. The program provides free MetroCards to assist students with travel to and from classes.
No prior experience is necessary; students only need to be highly motivated. Visit cooper.edu/academics/outreach-and-pre-college/saturday-program or email saturdayprogram@cooper.edu to learn more. Otherwise, call (212) 353-4108.
Teens have the chance to develop their computational interests or learn valuable lifelong skills with the Youth and Teen Media Education Program by NYC Parks. For more information about a wide selection of programs, visit nycgovparks.org/programs/media/teens or email media.ed@parks.nyc.gov. Call (212) 360-2791 for support.
Math and problem-solving are the focal points of the BEAM programs. BEAM supports middle and high school students who are underrepresented in STEM careers. Students are welcome to take part in a wide range of enrichment events throughout the year and summer, such as classes on the weekends, field trips and lab visits, and more.
After a child has participated in a sumeer program, they will receive an invitation to apply to the BEAM Pathway program. This program kicks off with a free 3-week session at a college campus in the summer of 2025. Learn more at beammath.org/a-10-year-program. Contact BEAM at (888) 264-2793 or info@beammath.org.
New York City public school K–12 students are invited to apply to STEM Matters NYC enrichment programs offered during spring break. Visit nycdoe.campintouch.com/ui/forms/application/camper/App to submit your application. Applicants entering kindergarten through grade 9 are selected to participate via lottery.
Teenagers in grades 8–12 learn about urban agriculture and the wonders of the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. The Garden Apprentice Program is a nine-month-based apprenticeship. Applications for the 2025 program will be available in fall 2024. Please email gap@bbg.org for more information. Visit www.bbg.org/learn/gap or email gap@bbg.org for more information.
CityParks Learn from the CityParks Foundation offers environmental education programs for elementary, middle, and high school students throughout New York City. CityParks Learn programs are free or low-cost and include school day, after-school, and summer sessions. And even more, they offer internship opportunities and apprenticeships for high school and college students every year. Learn about available programs at cityparksfoundation.org/learn. To apply, go over the “APPLY NOW” section for the program of your choice.
Their programs are located in more than 400 parks, recreation centers, and public schools across New York City. Explore options for middle schoolers at cityparksfoundation.org/learn
It offers free after-school programs for children from 6 to 13 years old. Programming is based around monthly themes including sports, famous artists, and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics). Registration is required. To apply, visit nycgovparks.org/programs/recreation/afterschool.
Instructional Clinic programs provide sessions at NYC City Parks for children aged eight and up, allowing them to learn sports in an approach that is safe, easy, and successful. There are so many sports options! For further information, contact your neighborhood recreation facility at nycgovparks.org/facilities/recreationcenters or visit cityparksfoundation.org/play. Apply to your favorite sports programs as early as late in the winter or early in the spring.
SBU Soccer offers quality and affordable programs that give new players a solid base and help competitive children improve and use their skills. Sessions vary based on the child’s experience. Children 2-19 are welcome to SBU. The school charges an affordable fee for practice equipment. Learn and apply at southbronxunited.org.
Please note that there is an enrollment fee that varies depending on the program. In cases of financial hardship, families can submit financial assistance for a partial or complete waiver.
For aspiring soccer college players, SBU offers the community ID camps or clinics. Register for an Open ID Clinic using the form at southbronxunited.org/idclinic and attend the next available clinic date.
Summer Rising is a free, safe, and fun academic and enrichment program for NYC students currently in grades K–8. It takes place every summer. In every neighborhood, well-known community-based organizations and local school leaders run it. Breakfast, lunch, and a snack are served to each student! The deadline to apply is usually in March so keep an eye out early in the year. Learn more about this city-wide program at schools.nyc.gov/enrollment/summer.
Find a city’s outdoor pool near you and take swimming lessons in the summer. Visit nycgovparks.org/facilities/outdoor-pools to learn more about open days and hours of operation.
NYC Parks Summer Day Camp offers 6–13-year-olds a variety of summer activities. Campers participate in sports, fitness, and outdoor activities while exploring New York City’s cultural and educational offerings. Apply early! Registration is conducted through a lottery in early March. Learn more and apply at nycgovparks.org/summercamp/applying.
Fresh Air Fund offers outdoor summer activities for kids to provide them with new experiences, skills, and ways to see things from different points of view. Learn about their different programs at freshair.org. Create an account at freshair.org/sign-up-for-camp and apply early in the year! If you have trouble registering, email apply@freshair.org or call 800-367-0003.
The YMCA offers day camps in all five boroughs for children aged 8–12. Learn more at ymcanyc.org/programs/camp.
Updated on February 21, 2024
Early Head Start provides center- and home-based care for children between six weeks and three years old. Beyond care and education, Early Head Start provides children with nutritional meals, health screening tests, and family health services.
Families who want to enroll may qualify if at least one of the following is met: income meets federal guidelines, housing is temporary, benefits are obtained (i.e. SNAP / WIC, cash assistance with TANF, social security income with SSI) or child is in foster care.
Visit MySchools.nyc to find Head Start programs; call them to start your application. Sign up no matter what your citizenship or immigration situation is! Learn more at schools.nyc.gov/enrollment/enroll-grade-by-grade/infant-and-toddler.
Seats are free or low-cost and provide early care and education for up to 10 hours of care a day. Eligibility for these seats are based on family income and needs. If you get an offer, you will need to submit a Childcare Assistance Application.
To know more about childcare assistance also known as vouchers, visit nyc.gov/site/acs/early-care/apply-child-care.page. Learn more about what Extended Care offers at schools.nyc.gov/enrollment/enroll-grade-by-grade/infant-and-toddler.
The Day Care Council of NYC is an organization that works to connect parents to day care centers near them while also working with day care providers themselves to assist in the development of quality child care. Learn more about their community service at dccnyinc.org/families. Contact them at 212-206-7818 or info@dccnyinc.org.
Child care vouchers help cover the cost of child care for children 6 weeks to 13 years old. Children with disabilities up to 19 years old are also covered. Parents are not required to be U.S. citizens. However, the child receiving care must be a U.S. citizen, a U.S. national, or have satisfactory immigration status. The size of your family, where you live, your income, and the reason you need care all play a role in determining eligibility. Find out if you are eligible at mycity.nyc.gov/s/screening-flow. Call the ACS Call Center at 212-835-7610, Mon-Fri 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m. for help.
Updated on February 20, 2024.
The Dial a Teacher program provides free homework assistance for parents and students directly over the telephone, from Monday through Thursday, from 4 to 7 p.m. Call the Dial-A-Teacher Hotline at (212) 777-3380 to contact a tutor. Many bilingual teachers assist parents and students in 10 languages, including Armenian, Bengali, Chinese, English, French, Haitian-Creole, Korean, Russian, Spanish and Tagalog.
nypl.ny.brainfuse.com/authenticate.asp
Tutoring is available for children from 2 p.m. to 11 p.m. You can Schedule a session by logging in with your library card number.
Your child will be matched with a teacher based on grade level, subject, and availability. Applicants can send in their forms during the summer.
Help is offered online or on the phone and 1 hour of tutoring is offered per week. Enrollment is ongoing.
alittlejoyinitiative.com/tutoring
A tutor will be matched to your child by grade level, subject, and availability as soon as possible. Enrollment is ongoing.
A tutor will be matched to your child within a week. Enrollment is ongoing.
Updated on February 17, 2024
Kindergarten through grade twelve (K–12) schools are separated into three levels:
K-12 schools are either public or private. In New York City, public schools are operated by the DOE, which has a separate application process for each K-12 level. Learn when and how to apply to each level of public school below:
1. Sign up for kindergarten and Gifted & Talented (G&T) admissions email lists at schools.nyc.gov/SignUp.
2. Learn when to apply to kindergarten at schools.nyc.gov/K. Annual deadline is usually in January.
3. Use MySchools.nyc to learn about kindergarten options.
4. Learn which community school district (1-32) you live in and if your child has a zoned school by entering your address at school search.schools.nyc or calling 311.
5. Apply by the deadline.
For more information, read this guide. Check schools.nyc.gov/K and schools.nyc.gov/GT to get the most up-to-date information on this year’s application timeline and admissions events.
1. Use MySchools.nyc to identify the programs your child is eligible to attend.
2. Find your child’s school district(s) and any zoned middle schools(s): Enter your address at schoolsearch.schools.nyc or call 311
3. Add up to 12 program choices to your application. Put your choices in your true order of preference, with your favorite program as #1. There is no better strategy.
4. Apply one of the following ways:
1. Read this guide! Check schools.nyc.gov/HS for the most up-to-date information.
2. Sign up for our high school admissions email list at schools.nyc.gov/SignUp.
3. Use MySchools.nyc to start exploring program options.
4. Discuss high school options with your family! Start building a list of favorite programs.
5. Make an appointment with your school counselor to discuss your high school options.
6. Learn when to apply to high school.
7. Add 12 programs to your application in your true order of preference.
8. Apply to high school by the deadline.
9. Complete any additional requirements, such as an audition
Updated on February 21, 2024
“3k” stands for “three-year-old kindergarten,” which means that the school is for children who are three years old and ready to start their early education. Preschools like 3K schools focus on building basic skills in young kids and getting them ready for kindergarten and beyond. 3K programs have been found to improve children’s intellectual and social development.
1. Sign up for 3-K and/or Pre-K admissions email lists for updates about events and deadlines at schools.nyc.gov/SignUp.
2. Learn when to apply to 3-K or Pre-K at schools.nyc.gov/3k. Annual deadlines are usually in March.
3. Use MySchools.nyc to explore program options.
4. Find your school district (1-32): Enter your address at schoolsearch.schools.nyc or call 311.
5. Apply by the deadline.
**Keep in mind that students who do not attend 3-K the year they are eligible cannot attend 3-K the year the next year when they turn four.**
Beware, that there are three types of 3-K seats or centers you can apply to:
For more information on applications, read this guide. Check schools.nyc.gov/3K for the latest information on deadlines. For detailed instructions about enrollment visit enrollmentsupport.schools.nyc and type “3K enrollment support”.
4K or Pre-K programs prepare four-year-olds for kindergarten by expanding on concepts covered in 3K and introducing more complex ideas.
1. Sign up for Pre-K admissions email lists for updates about events and deadlines at schools.nyc.gov/SignUp.
2. Learn when to apply to Pre-K at schools.nyc.gov/pre-k. Annual deadlines are usually in March.
3. Use MySchools.nyc to explore program options.
4. Find your school district (1-32): Enter your address at schoolsearch.schools.nyc or call 311.
5. Apply by the deadline.
Types of pre-K seats or centers you can apply to are:
For detailed instructions about enrollment visit enrollmentsupport.schools.nyc and type “Pre-K enrollment support”.
Updated on February 15, 2024.
Child and family development experts visit both public and private preschools for on-site consultations. Consultants keep an eye on kids, meet with directors and teachers, run workshops, and give parents advice. If needed, they can also send parents to child development specialists for testing and services. Call (212) 690-7234 to get in touch. Visit jewishboard.org/listing/harlem-child-development-center
Early childhood programs provide therapy and lessons at centers or at home for children from low-income families, with disabilities, or who have experienced trauma or homelessness. Program locations include East Harlem and Upper Yorkville, as well as home-based programs. Learn more at a-b-c.org/early-childhood.
Through their helpline, they provide individualized, direct assistance. Reach them at (212) 677-4660. Access workshops and resources at includenyc.org.
Their specialists help children struggling in school or experiencing discrimination in their learning programs. Get help at (866) 427-6033. Access resources at advocatesforchildren.org.
They advise and represent public and charter school students facing school challenges. Call (917) 661-4500 for an intake in any language. Learn more at legalservicesnyc.org
Updated on February 9, 2024
If a pediatrician believes there is developmental delay or disability in a young child, they may refer the child to an examination with EI. When the caregiver and doctor agree to an EI evaluation, a clinic social worker will fax an application to the “Citywide Early Intervention Referral Unit”. The fax number for the unit is 347-396-8801. Parents must share their names, phone number, address, and email with their social workers in order to get updates from the EI referral unit.
In NYC, EI evaluations and services are coordinated by the Department of Health. Find an EI application form at www.nyc.gov/assets/doh/downloads/pdf/earlyint/ei-referral-form.pdf.
After the application has been faxed, an EI agency will assign the child an EI coordinator. The EI coordinator is expected to contact the caregiver, respond to their concerns, examine their rights, and discuss the child’s evaluation options. The coordinator will give the caregiver the option of performing the evaluation with their child if they choose.
Subsequently, the evaluation is performed by an interdisciplinary team that determines the child’s eligibility for the program and the family’s needs and concerns. During The evaluation, the EI evaluator may contact the child’s pediatrician for input.
If the evaluation results indicate that the child has a condition that qualifies for EI, the initial service coordinator will schedule a meeting to build a plan with the caregivers. The child’s health insurance may pay the cost of EI services, but caregivers should be aware that Early Intervention services are free. After the plan is built, EI begins services within 30 days. EI reviews the built plan every 6 months.
It is important to note that when the child reaches the age of three, they will be required to transition to other services, such as Early Childhood Special Education programs in inclusive settings. The Early Intervention service provider assists the child and family with obtaining new services and adjusting to the new environment.
Children who live outside of New York City can enroll in their county’s Early Intervention program by calling their county health department or visiting health.ny.gov/community/infants_children/early_intervention/county_eip.htm.
To learn more about EI, visit www.nyc.gov and enter “early intervention” into the search box. To get answers to your questions about the EI process, contact INCLUDEnyc at (212) 677-4660 or visit includenyc.org/help-center/resources/early-intervention.
To seek an evaluation for your child, email a letter to your local Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE). Find your district and CPSE by visiting the page “Find a School Tool” at schoolsearch.schools.nyc.
This letter should include:
The letter can be drafted using the examples linked below. It is very important that the parents specifies the evaluation services sought (e.g., psychological, psychoeducational, occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech and language pathology, functional behavioral assessment, etc.).
If the parent has documentation of a developmental condition or diagnosis, they could provide it. The parent must request a letter from the pediatrician confirming the child’s diagnosis or disability.
Once the child has an IEP, it must be reviewed once each academic year via another IEP meeting with the school staff and parents. You can request a meeting to discuss your child’s IEP ANY TIME, and you do not have to wait for the annual review meeting. To find more information about CPSEs, visit www.nyc.gov and type “Preschool Special Education” into the search bar.
NYC schools provide free evaluation services to 6- to 17-year-old children experiencing behavioral or academic issues. Evaluation results will help you and the school make a program of services and support that fits your child’s needs.
Ask your school’s principal to evaluate your child with a letter to seek an evaluation. In this letter, it is very important that you specify the evaluation services that you seek (e.g., psychological, psychoeducational, occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech and language pathology, functional behavioral assessment, etc).
Follow this template letter letter template to seek an evaluation and get what you need.
Updated on August 5, 2024.
Updated on February 8, 2024.
Para español, desplácese hacia abajo.
| MANHATTAN | ||
| THE NEW YORK PUBLIC LIBRARY
|
Offers FREE English classes, community support resources, and virtual career services at a variety of locations throughout the 5 boroughs. The NYPL also has a variety of multimedia learning resources for ESL students. Follow nypl.org/events/classes/crw/links to find the program that best fits you! |
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| BOROUGH OF MANHATTAN COMMUNITY COLLEGE |
Address: 25 Broadway, 8th Floor New York, NY 10004; Phone: 212-346-8890. Offers a variety of adult courses including allied health, technology, and media arts, business and professional development, and English as a second language (ESL), to list a few. Visit campusce.net/bmcc/category/category.aspx to learn more about which course is right for you! To learn more about professional skills online courses that BMCC has to offer, go to: www.ed2go.com/bmccny. |
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| CUNY IN THE HEIGHTS – HOSTOS COMMUNITY COLLEGE |
Address: 5030 Broadway New York, NY 10034; Phone: 212-567-7132. Offers a variety of adult learning courses. To learn more, register for one of their many virtual open houses during Summer 2022 by following this link. To navigate the website, go to the blue menu bar, choose Continuing Ed, and then click on “Online Registration” to register for an open house or specific courses. For more information, call 212-567-7132. |
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| HOSTOS COMMUNITY COLLEGE |
Offers basic education & literacy courses, with a $25 registration fee for all classes. Call to find out information about enrollment periods or visit the link www.campusce.net/hostoswdce. |
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| MANHATTAN FOR EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY CENTER |
Address: 163 West 125th Street, 15th Floor, New York, NY 10027; Phone: 212-961-323. The center will help you achieve your academic goals and take your career to the next level. They offer free programs to help you learn English, earn your High School Equivalency diploma, prepare for college and/or train for a career. See if you are eligible. For more information, call 212-961-323 or email admissions@man.eoc.cuny.edu. |
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| HARLEM EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY CENTER |
Offers college Admissions assistance and counseling services, TASC (formerly GED) exam preparation, adult basic education, workshops, and academic advising. To learn more about each program, visit their website at https://harlemctred.org/eoc/. Adults with financial needs can qualify for financial aid. For financual aid assistance, contact James Ruffin at (646) 524-5563, ext. 2 or at jruffin@harlemctred.org. | |
| BRONX | ||
| THE LEHMAN COLLEGE ADULT LEARNING CENTER (ALC) |
Phone: 718-960-8807. Offers free classes in Basic Education, English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), and English Language Acquisition (ELA), and (TASC™) exam preparation for High School Equivalency diplomas. For more information about or to register for any of the ALC’s adult education programs, please email: info.alc@lehman.cuny.edu or call 718-960-8807. |
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| BRONX COMMUNITY COLLEGE(BCC) |
Phone: 718-289-5834. offers FREE Adult Basic Education and Training Programming services to adults who are seeking to improve their English language skills (ESOL), get a high school diploma (HSE), and to those who are displaced because of loss of income (DHP). Besides obtaining academic instruction and counseling, students receive college/training information and follow-up. To learn more about adult education programming, visit their website or call 718-289-5834. |
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| NEW YORK LANGUAGE CENTER |
Provides high-quality education in a friendly and supportive environment at an affordable price. For promotional online tuition prices, contact info@nylanguagecenter.com. For more program information for the Bronx location, follow this link. |
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| BROOKLYN | ||
| THE NEW YORK CITY COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY ADULT LEARNING CENTER |
Phone: 718-552-1140. Offers FREE ESL and High School Equivalent (HSE) Classes. Register here or call for more info at 718-552-1140. |
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| QUEENS | ||
| LAGUARDIA COMMUNITY COLLEGE | Phone: 718-482-5385. Offers career skills and workforce training, ESL services, high school equivalency (HSE) courses. HSE (GED) classes run 3x/week in the mornings or evenings. Apply at laguardia.edu/hseform or call 718-482-5385 for more information. |
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| SUNY QUEENS EDUCATIONAL OPPOTUNITY CENTER | Offers tuition-free & c career Programs. Apply by visiting the SUNY admissions portal at banner.ucawd.suny.edu/pls/prod/bwskalog.P_DispLoginNon. |
ESPANOL/SPANISH
| MANHATTAN | ||
| LA BIBLIOTECA PUBLICA DE NUEVA YORK (NYPL)
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Ofrece clases gratis en inglés, recursos de apoyo comunitario y servicios profesionales virtuales en una variedad de ubicaciones en los 5 condados. La NYPL también tiene una variedad de recursos de aprendizaje multimedia para estudiantes de ESL. Siga nypl.org/events/classes/crw/links para encontrar el programa que mejor se adapte a usted! |
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| BOROUGH OF MANHATTAN COMMUNITY COLLEGE |
Dirección: 25 Broadway, 8th Floor New York, NY 10004; Teléfono: 212-346-8890. Ofrece una variedad de cursos para adultos que incluyen salud relacionada, tecnología y artes mediáticas, negocios y desarrollo profesional e inglés como segundo idioma (ESL), por mencionar algunos. Visite campusce.net/bmcc/category/category.aspx para obtener más información sobre qué curso es adecuado para usted! Para obtener más información sobre los cursos en línea de habilidades profesionales que BMCC tiene para ofrecer, vaya a: www.ed2go.com/bmccny. |
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| CUNY IN THE HEIGHTS – HOSTOS COMMUNITY COLLEGE |
Dirección: 5030 Broadway New York, NY 10034; Teléfono: 212-567-7132. OOfrece una variedad de cursos de aprendizaje para adultos. Para obtener más información, regístrese en una de sus muchas jornadas de puertas abiertas virtuales durante el verano de 2022 siguiendo este enlace. Para navegar por el sitio web, vaya a la barra de menú azul, elija Educación continua y luego haga clic en “Registro en línea” para registrarse en una jornada de puertas abiertas o en cursos específicos. Para obtener más información, llame al 212-567-7132. |
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| HOSTOS COMMUNITY COLLEGE |
Ofrece cursos de alfabetización y educación básica, con una cuota de inscripción de $25 para todas las clases. Llame para obtener información sobre los períodos de inscripción o visite el enlace www.campusce.net/hostoswdce. |
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| MANHATTAN FOR EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY CENTER |
Dirección: 163 West 125th Street, 15th Floor, New York, NY 10027; Teléfono: 212-961-323.El centro te ayudará a alcanzar tus metas académicas y llevar tu carrera al siguiente nivel. Ofrecen programas gratuitos para ayudarlo a aprender inglés, obtener su diploma equivalente a la escuela secundaria, prepararse para la universidad y/o capacitarse para una carrera. Vea si es elegible. Para obtener más información, llame al 212-961-323 o envíe un correo electrónico a admisiones@man.eoc.cuny.edu |
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| HARLEM EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY CENTER |
Ofrece asistencia para la admisión a la universidad y servicios de asesoramiento, preparación para el examen TASC (anteriormente GED), educación básica para adultos, talleres y asesoramiento académico. Para obtener más información sobre cada programa, visite su sitio web en harlemctred.org/eoc. Los adultos con necesidades financieras pueden calificar para ayuda financiera. Para asistencia de ayuda financiera, comuníquese con James Ruffin al (646) 524-5563 , ext. 2 o en jruffin@harlemctred.org. | |
| BRONX | ||
| THE LEHMAN COLLEGE ADULT LEARNING CENTER (ALC) |
Teléfono: 718-960-8807. Ofrece clases gratuitas de educación básica, inglés para hablantes de otros idiomas (ESOL) y adquisición del idioma inglés (ELA) y preparación para el examen (TASC™) para diplomas de equivalencia de escuela secundaria. Para obtener más información o registrarse en cualquiera de los programas de educación para adultos de ALC, envíe un correo electrónico a: info.alc@lehman.cuny.edu o llame al 718-960-8807. |
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| BRONX COMMUNITY COLLEGE(BCC) |
Teléfono: 718-289-5834.ofrece servicios GRATUITOS de programación de capacitación y educación básica para adultos a adultos que buscan mejorar sus habilidades en el idioma inglés (ESOL), obtener un diploma de escuela secundaria (HSE) y a aquellos que están desplazados debido a la pérdida de ingresos (DHP). Además de obtener instrucción académica y asesoramiento, los estudiantes reciben información y seguimiento sobre la universidad/capacitación. Para obtener más información sobre la programación de educación para adultos, visite su sitio web o llame al 718-289-5834. |
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| NEW YORK LANGUAGE CENTER |
Brinda educación de alta calidad en un ambiente amigable y de apoyo a un precio asequible. Para conocer los precios promocionales de la matrícula en línea, comuníquese con info@nylanguagecenter.com. Para obtener más información sobre el programa, siga este enlace. |
|
| BROOKLYN | ||
| THE NEW YORK CITY COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY ADULT LEARNING CENTER |
Teléfono: 718-552-1140. Ofrece clases GRATUITAS de ESL y equivalentes a la escuela secundaria (HSE). Regístrese aquí o llama para mas información al 718-552-1140. |
|
| QUEENS | ||
| LAGUARDIA COMMUNITY COLLEGE | Teléfono: 718-482-5385. Ofrece habilidades profesionales y capacitación laboral, servicios de ESL, cursos de equivalencia de escuela secundaria (HSE). Las clases de HSE (GED) se imparten 3 veces por semana por la mañana o por la noche. Aplica en laguardia.edu/hseform o llama 718-482-5385 para más información. |
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| SUNY QUEENS EDUCATIONAL OPPOTUNITY CENTER | Ofrece programas de carrera gratuitos y c. Solicite visitando el portal de admisiones de SUNY en banner.ucawd.suny.edu/pls/prod/bwskalog.P_DispLoginNon. |
Updated on July 15, 2022
All children and young adults aged 0-24 years old can get a free membership at the NYC Recreation Centers. If you’re an adult aged 25-61, a senior, a veteran, or a person with a disability, you can find membership info at nycgovparks.org/programs/recreation-centers/membership.
To sign up, just fill out the registration form at nycgovparks.org/programs/recreation-centers/membership, print it, and bring it to any of our recreation center locations along with a government-issued ID.
If you’re enrolling as a veteran or a person with a disability, you may need additional documentation. If you don’t have a valid ID, you can find out how to get one at idNYC’s website at https://a069-idnyconlineportal.nyc.gov.
For more details, check out nycgovparks.org/programs/recreation-centers/membership.
Updated on October 14, 2024
Updated on October 14, 2024
If you are unable to use public transportation and need to request a medical service pick-up, you may be eligible if you don’t have a valid driver’s license, don’t have a working vehicle available in your household, are unable to travel or wait for services alone, or have a physical, cognitive, mental, or developmental limitation.
How to Request Medical Transportation Services
CANCELLATIONS
To find more information about requests of transportation with the Medical Answering Services (MAS) visit emedny.org/ProviderManuals/Transportation/PDFS/Ordering_Guidelines_Manual.pdf.
Updated on September 24, 2024
The NYU David B. Kriser Dental Center is located at 336 Flatbush Ave Ext, Floor 4A, Brooklyn, NY. It provides affordable and comprehensive dental care for patients of all ages with diverse dental needs, serving Brooklyn, Staten Island residents, and the surrounding area.
The clinic offers dental services at lower fees compared to most private practices in the area. Dental students, supervised by the NYU College of Dentistry faculty, perform diagnosis and treatment.
General and specialized dental services are available. For urgent dental needs such as loose or broken restorations, excessive bleeding, swelling, oral infection, or trauma, visits are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis without an appointment.
Payment for services is required at the beginning of each visit or before treatment completion for procedures requiring multiple appointments. To schedule an appointment, please call (646) 997-4300. Learn more about the David B. Kriser Dental Center at dental.nyu.edu/patientcare/brooklyn-patient-care.html.
The Bedford Stuyvesant Family Health Center (BSFHC) offers pediatric and adult patients affordable dental care. The clinic is at 1456 Fulton Street, Brooklyn, New York 11216, and serves residents in North and Central Brooklyn. This center can be reached at (718) 636-4500.
The clinic offers comprehensive and preventative dental care as well as emergency care. The following dental services are offered: dental exams, x-rays, cleaning, oral cancer screening, fillings, tooth replacement, dental sealants, fluoride treatments, and night guards for teeth grinding.
BSFHC offers a sliding scale and financial assistance for those with difficulty paying. Individuals and families with annual incomes at or below 100 percent of the Federal Poverty Level must receive a total discount, and only a nominal/flat fee is charged. To schedule an appointment, please request one at https://www.bsfhc.org/appointment.
Community Healthcare Network (CHN) is a not-for-profit organization that provides affordable dental care and serves low-income and uninsured New Yorkers.
Their team of dentists, dental hygienists, and dental assistants offers a wide range of dental services, including teeth cleanings, check-ups, periodontics (implants), prosthodontics (fake teeth), pedodontics (children’s teeth), endodontics (inside the tooth), oral surgery, and cosmetic dentistry.
For patients who do not have health insurance, the center can create a payment plan that fits the patient’s budget and healthcare needs. Payments will be made based on a sliding fee scale. This means that how much patients pay for a service is based on how much money they make. To schedule an appointment, please call (866) 246-8259. Learn more about the Community Healthcare Network at Williamsburg at www.chnnyc.org/services/dental-care.
The Institute for Family Health’s centers in the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Manhattan offer high-quality services to people of all ages. All their centers accept new patients. Family Health Center of Harlem is located at 1824 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10035.
The centers offer comprehensive dental services and digital radiography. The Institute’s dental services are affordable for everyone. They accept Medicaid and most insurance plans. For patients who do not have insurance, the Institute offers care through its sliding fee discount program. To schedule an appointment, please call 844-434-2778. Learn more about about the Family Health Center of Harlem at institute.org/health-care/services/dental-care
The Institute for Family Health’s centers in the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, and the Mid-Hudson Valley offer high-quality services to people of all ages. All their centers accept new patients. Walton Family Health Center is at 1894 Walton Avenue, Bronx, NY 10453.
The centers offer comprehensive dental services and digital radiography. The Institute’s dental services are affordable for everyone. They accept Medicaid and most insurance plans. For patients who do not have insurance, the Institute offers care through its sliding fee discount program. To schedule an appointment, please call 844-434-2778. Learn more about the Walton Family Health Center at institute.org/health-care/locations/bronx.
The Institute for Family Health’s centers in the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Manhattan offer high-quality services to people of all ages. All their centers accept new patients. Stevenson Family Health Center is at 731 White Plains Road, Bronx, NY 10473.
The centers offer comprehensive dental services and digital radiography. The Institute’s dental services are affordable for everyone. They accept Medicaid and most insurance plans. For patients who do not have insurance, the Institute offers care through its sliding fee discount program. To schedule an appointment, please call 844-434-2778. Learn more about Stevenson Family Health Center at institute.org/location/stevenson-family-health-center.
The Floating Hospital provides quality oral healthcare to people of all ages, from babies to adults, utilizing the best available preventative, restorative, and cosmetic techniques. The clinic is at 21-01 41st Avenue, Long Island City, NY 11101.
The clinic accepts all Medicare and Medicaid plans. For patients without insurance, they apply their sliding fee scale, which calculates a rate of pay based on household size and income. The front desk clerk will calculate the cost before the service so patients can know the affordability of the visit in advance. To schedule an appointment, please call 718-784-2240, ext. 2. Learn more about the Floating Hospital at www.thefloatinghospital.org/dental-clinic.
The Metro Community Health Centers offers routine cleaning and other dental procedures for children and adults. They also provide individualized attention and accommodation for those with special dental needs. The center serves underserved patients and is especially committed to the needs of people with disabilities. The clinic is at 2324 Forest Avenue, Staten Island, NY 10303, (718) 447-0200.
The center offers a sliding fee discount to patients with income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level. Patients can apply for their Sliding Fee Discount Application by calling any of their practices at (855) 624-2692. To schedule an appointment, please request one at https://mchcny.org/form-library.
Updated on July 30th, 2024
What can I do if there is a mistake on my child’s birth certificate?
You must send the hospital your order request and the original baby certificate within the first year of the child’s life. Talk to the hospital’s birth clerk for more information.
How do I get a corrected birth certificate after your child’s first year?
When you receive the original birth certificate, it’s best to make the changes right away. Waiting until your child is a year old can slow things down. For help correcting your child’s birth certificate, please follow this guide carefully at this link: www.nyc.gov/site/doh/services/birth-death-records-corrections-birth.pagef. You can also call 311 to get help.
How can I get copies of my child’s birth certificate?
Get a copy online at VitalCheck, a third-party company approved by the Department of Health. It takes 10 to 15 business days to complete. At a816-evital.nyc.gov/eVitalVRRTS, you can see where your order is in the process. Each certificate has a cost, and there may be additional processing fees. The processing time is four to six weeks.
Complete, sign, and notarize the following document: nyc.gov/assets/doh/downloads/pdf/vr/birth1.pdf. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope.
Learn more about how to get a birth certificate copy at https://www.nyc.gov/site/doh/services/birth-death-records-birth.page
Updated on May 29, 2024
Types of crimes that can be reported online:
To report a crime online, make sure that you:
How to File a Report Online:
Find your closest precinct: nyc.gov/site/nypd/bureaus/patrol/find-your-precinct.page.
If you are unsure whether you are a victim of a crime or want to learn more ways you can receive help, visit: nyc.gov/site/nypd/services/victim-services/frequently-asked-questions.page or call the NYC Crime Victim hotline at: 866-689-4357.*
If the victim is in need of an order of protection for an inter-partner relationship (i.e. family, spouse, children), the NYC Victim Hotline can assist in getting that order. The NYC Victim Hotline can also connect callers to free legal services for domestic violence victims, whether it be for divorce, support groups, or any other of their concerns.
Resources
Family Justice Centers nyc.gov/site/ocdv/programs/family-justice-centers.page
Safe Horizon Counseling Center safehorizon.org/find-us
More information at https://www1.nyc.gov/site/nypd/services/victim-services/frequently-asked-questions.page.
Updated on September 9, 2024
Here are some specific services that YAI offers:
The best way to access services is through a referral from your social worker or medical professional. For questions, please contact YAI at (212) 273-6182.
Learn more about YAI visiting their website at www.yai.org
Updated on October 11, 2024
littlesistersfamily.org/programs/nursing
333 East 115th Street, New York, NY 10029
(646) 672-5200 | info@lsafhs.org
Working in collaboration with the Certified Home Health Agency (CHHA), nursing care is provided within the home setting with skill, compassion, and warmth. Provided care fulfills NYS Department of Health’s Division of Home and Community-based Services regulations.
Services
– Holistic, patient-centered care
– Assist with the transition from pregnancy to parenthood
– Refer patients to necessary referrals including the food pantry, breastfeeding and parenting workshops, parenting and child development program, environmental services, advocacy services, and non-LSA resources
Eligibility
– First-time mothers
– High-risk maternity patients, infants, pediatric patients, and the elderly
– Referred by physicians from local hospitals and clinics
How to apply
– To register for enrolment, complete this online form or feel free to contact an advocate at (646) 672-5200 during business hours (Monday through Friday, 9am-5pm).
– You can find more information here
Updated on July 26, 2021
littlesistersfamily.org/programs/parenting-and-child-development
333 East 115th Street, New York, NY 10029
(646) 672-5200 | info@lsafhs.org
The Parenting and Child Development program encourages healthy child development for children aged 0-3. This program focuses home visits and socialization for children to monitor development and risk of developmental delay. Focus areas include attachment and healthy separation, language, and literacy, exploration and learning, self-regulation and emotional development, and connections to outside resources. Families are assisted with enrollment in an appropriate preschool, 3-K or pre-K program.
Eligibility
– Children aged 0-3
– At the risk of developmental delay
How to apply
– To register for enrollment, complete this online form or feel free to contact an advocate at (646) 672-5200 during business hours (Monday through Friday, 9am-5pm).
– You can find more information here
Updated on July 26, 2021
Likewise, you can get free dental and vision care or pay for these benefits, depending on your income. Find more information about the Essential Plan at info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov/essentialplan.
Updated on February 27, 2024
Smoking and using e-cigarettes, which includes cannabis (marijuana), is prohibited in the common areas of residential buildings with three or more units.
Common areas include:
– Lobbies
– Hallways
– Stairways
– Elevators
– Basements
– Laundry rooms
You can make a complaint about:
– Smoking taking place in locations covered by the Smoke-Free Air Act
– A building owner that has not disclosed or shared a policy on smoking to current or prospective tenants
Find more information on the Frequently Asked Questions Handout by the Department of Health on the link nyc.gov/assets/doh/downloads/pdf/smoke/neighbor-secondhand-smoke-faq.pdf. Contact your landlord to make a smoking complaint. Call 311 for assistance by phone.
Updated on May 25th, 2021
harlemdowling.org/cppp.html
2139 Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Blvd. New York, NY 10027
(212) 749-3656 | info@harlemdowling.org
Free 12+ Weeks of Individual Parenting Skills children/youth, ages 0-17 and their parents/caregivers in the Central Harlem community of New York City. with sessions provided in different settings. Metrocards will be provided to all participants.
Eligibility
► Single / Two-Parent Homes
► Foster families
► Families with relatives as caregivers
► Blended families
Call (212) 749-3656 for programming, scheduling and registration.
Updated on May 19, 2021
While these programs are free, participants must be registered members of a recreation center. For further information, please get in touch with your nearest recreation center at www.nycgovparks.org/facilities/recreationcenters.
All Children under 18 residing in New York City can participate in instructional clinics at NYC Parks.
Learn more at nycgovparks.org/programs/recreation/youth-sports.
Updated on October 14, 2024
Explore fun programs like the ones below:
How to Find Programs
Other parks in New York City
In addition to city parks, the five boroughs of New York also possess beautiful state and national parks that are waiting to be explored and enjoyed. Please get to know where they are and discover beaches, piers, museums, and landmark attractions. Go to https://www.nycgovparks.org/park-features/other-parks-in-nyc to learn more.
Updated on October 14, 2024
yougottabelieve.org/parenting/support-groups
3114 Mermaid Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11224
(718) 372-3003
You Gotta Believe’s goal is to find youth permanent families so that they have the support system they need to live safely and to their highest potential.
Many staff members are also adoptees and adoptive parents and offer long-term support to families through telephone coaching and in-person meetings, monthly support groups, and a monthly radio parent call-in forum.
If you are interested in YGB’s long-term support services or joining a support group, please contact Emily Collins – ecollins@yougottabelieve.org or call 917-613-2937.
Updated on March 21, 2021
themomsgroups.com
Call Renee at (917) 578-3733 to learn more about the programs.
The Moms Group has facilitated weekly chats hosted in 32 locations a week since 2008. There are specialized groups for 1) expectant moms, 2) new moms, 3) moms of older babies, and 4) second-time moms. Groups are led by a facilitator and members may also access parenting support online and via phone.
Locations
Upper East Side, Upper West Side, Union Square, Chelsea, Flatiron, Murray Hill, Midtown East, and Midtown West in Manhattan, and Carroll Gardens, Cobble Hill, Brooklyn Heights, Williamsburg, and Park Slope in Brooklyn. Chats are taking place online now.
Contact
Email rebekah@themomsgroups.com with your neighborhood and due date and they will send along some options or call Renee at 917-578-3733 to learn more about the programs. Group information at Meetup – meetup.com/New-Moms-Support-Group-NYC.
Updated on March 21, 2021
themotherhoodcenter.com/classes-and-education
205 Lexington Avenue, 10th Floor, New York, NY 10016
(212) 335-0034 | info@themotherhoodcenter.com
The Motherhood Center provides supportive services for new and expectant moms, including a range of treatment options for women suffering from perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.
Services
The Motherhood Center offers virtual classes and support groups for all new and expectant moms and their partners. Classes range from $25-50 per group.
Contact
Call (212) 335-0034 or send an email to info@themotherhoodcenter.com.
Updated on March 21, 2021
bronx-new-mommies-group.org
P.O. Box 21 , Bronx, NY 10475
bronxnewmommies@yahoo.com
The Bronx New Mommies Group Inc. is a non-profit support organization focused on providing mother-to-mother support and promoting positive parenting and social interaction.
Activities
They offer virtual coffee tea chats as informal support groups for moms, virtual yoga mini-classes 15-30 min long, virtual mom’s brunch, and a virtual mom’s night out.
Contact
Send an email to bronxnewmommies@yahoo.com.
Updated on March 21, 2021
www.kidsinthehouse.com
(310) 899-6026
Kids in the House is the largest parenting video library in the world. This educational website aims to help parents and caregivers become better at parenting by educating, inspiring and entertaining. This resource contains over 9,000 videos from 500 leading parenting experts, including doctors, pediatricians, psychologists, educators, best-selling authors, celebrities, and parents themselves.
Updated on March 14, 2021
www.aliforneycenter.org/health-services
321 West 125th Street, New York, NY 10027.
Phone: (212) 222-3427 ext. 300.
– Monday 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Doctor, Medical Office Assistant, and Insurance Navigator.
– Tuesday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Nurse and Medical Office Assistant.
– Thursday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Doctor, Nurse, Medical Assistant, Social Worker, and Insurance Navigator.
– Saturday 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. Nurse.
www.callen-lorde.org.
Chelsea: 356 West 18th St. New York, NY 10011 | Phone: (212) 271-7200.
Bronx: 3144 3rd Ave, Bronx, NY 10451 | Phone: (718) 215-1800.
Brooklyn: 40 Flatbush Ave Ext, Brooklyn, NY 11201 | Phone: (718) 215-1818.
– Sliding fee scale.
– Adolescent Health, Crisis Text Line.
– Dental Care.
– Sexual Health.
– Behavioral Health.
www.nychealthandhospitals.org/services/lgbtq-health-care-services
East Harlem: 1901 First Avenue (at 97th Street), New York, NY 10029 | Phone: (212) 423-7292.
Midtown: 462 First Avenue, New York, NY 10016 | Phone: (332) 259-0404.
Lower East Side: 227 Madison Street, New York, NY 10002 | Phone: (212) 441-5469.
Bronx: 1400 Pelham Parkway Street, Bronx, NY 10461 | Phone: (718) 918-7787.
Bronx: 234 East 149th Street 8th floor, Unit 8A Bronx, NY 10451 | Phone: (718) 579-5264.
Brooklyn: 760 Broadway Brooklyn, New York 1120 | Phone: (718) 963-8033.
Hours of operation: Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.- 4:30 p.m.
— Transgender health care, including hormone therapy and gender-affirming surgery.
— Women’s and men’s health.
— General medical/specialty referrals.
— Preventive care services.
— Social work.
Updated on September, 2024
There is no central intake center; instead, youth should visit a drop-in center.
Eligibility
Young people between the ages of 14 to 24.
Services
Food, clothing, showers, laundry, and case management services are available.
The Door Manhattan
555 Broome Street, New York NY 10013.
(212) 941-9090.
Mon-Thurs: 11 am-6 pm.
Ali Forney Center Manhattan
321W 125th Street, New York NY 10027.
(212) 206–0574. Mon to Friday, 10am to 6pm.
Safe Horizon Streetwork Project Manhattan
209 West 125th Street, New York NY 10027.
(212) 695–2220. Mon, Tues, Thurs–Sun: 12pm–6pm
Safe Horizon Streetwork Project Manhattan LES
33 Essex Street, New York NY 10002.
(646) 602-6404. Mon., Tues., Thurs. and Fri. 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Covenant House
460 West 41st Street, New York, NY 10036.
(212) 613-0300. 24/7.
Cardinal McCloskey
333 East 149th Street, Bronx NY 10451.
(718) 993-5495 | (917) 304-5118. 24/7.
Services Brooklyn
774 Rockaway Avenue, Brooklyn NY 11211.
(718) 685–3850. 24/7.
Sheltering Arms (Brooklyn)
1600 Central Avenue, Far Rockaway NY 11691. Tuesday through Saturday 11am – 7pm.
In person services: Social distancing and other DOH health guidelines will be followed.
Sheltering Arms (Queens)
89-74 162nd Street, 3rd Floor, Jamaica NY 11432.
(718) 526–2400 ext. 2077. 24/7.
Project Hospitality
27 Port Richmond Avenue, Staten Island NY 10302.
(718) 876–4752. 10am – 7am (21 hours).
For more information about shelter locations and services for youth, please visit: www1.nyc.gov/site/dycd/services/runaway-homeless-youth.page
or call 311.
Updated on October 7, 2024.
The Parent Helpline
http://www.nationalparenthelpline.org
1-855-4A PARENT (1-855-427-2736)
Call the National Parent Helpline® to get emotional support from a trained Advocate and become empowered and a stronger parent. The line offers multi-lingual information and referral services that address questions or concerns about a child or family.
A trained Helpline Specialist is available every day from 1:00 p.m. until 10 p.m (EST).
Llame a la Línea Nacional de Ayuda para Padres para obtener apoyo emocional de un defensor capacitado y convertirse en un padre más fuerte y empoderado. La línea ofrece información en varios idiomas y servicios de derivación que abordan preguntas o inquietudes sobre un niño o una familia.
Un especialista capacitado en la línea de ayuda está disponible todos los días desde la 1:00 pm hasta las 10 pm (hora este americana).
First Step offers six-week in-person classes to women who want to work in human services. Call 212-776-2074 if you have questions, or visit coalitionforthehomeless.org/our-programs/first-step-job-training/first-step to learn more.
Go to www.careerdiscovery.cityofnewyork.us to find out more.
The Sharing Place Thrift Store
(646) 672-5203
The Sharing Place Thrift store sells gently used quality clothing, furniture, and other household items at a discounted price.
The store also provides free emergency goods to people in urgent need in area codes 10029 and 10035 when connected through the LSA Family Health Service, a nonprofit that provides food pantry, health, education, and family support services to families in crisis in East Harlem and surrounding communities.
Holiday Schedule
Open 10am-4pm on
Thursday, December 17 – Saturday, December 19
Wednesday, December 23rd
Saturday, December 26th
Monday, December 28th
Wednesday, December 30th
Saturday, January 2nd
Monday, January 4th
For after-holidays hours of operations, visit www.thesharingplacenyc.com
Most pharmacies in New York participate in the program, and anyone can use these Rx cards. Unlike insurance programs, no income, age, pre-existing condition, deductible, or waiting period restrictions exist.
Visit the website of the specific Rx program to find specific medications and see how much you could save with an Rx card. To get an Rx card, please find below a list of prescription assistance programs:
After obtaining the Rx discount card, simply hand it to the pharmacist. It’s worth mentioning that those with insurance can use the card for medications not covered by their plan or if the discount results in a lower cost than their co-pay. You can also ask your pharmacist to compare prices for you.
Once an adult family arrives at AFIC, a caseworker interviews them. The caseworker inquires about their living situation and explains the services that may help them avoid shelter altogether.
Families may be assigned a temporary shelter placement for up to 10 days while DHS investigates the information provided during the interview. Based on the investigation, DHS determines whether the family is eligible or ineligible for shelter based on whether they have fully cooperated with the application and eligibility process and/or have other housing options available to them.
Learn more about the intake and documentation process at www.nyc.gov/site/dhs/shelter/families/adult-families-applying.page.
Updated on October 7, 2024.
Federally Declared Disasters Areas
FEMA Disaster Recovery Center (800) 621-3362 | TTY: (800) 462-7585 | 711 or Video Relay Service (VRS): (800) 621-3362
American Red Cross Greater NYC (877) 733-2767
Disaster Unemployment Assistance (888) 209-8124
A disaster is an occurrence disrupting the normal conditions of existence and causing a level of suffering that exceeds the capacity of adjustment of the affected community. Some examples are nor’easters, severe storms with flooding, and power outages.
Learn how to prepare and what resources are at your disposal.
Find the Nearest Hospital
Find the nearest hospitals in your area and view what services each provides with the US Hospital Finder.
Find a Safe Place to Go
Visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) to talk with someone in person for guidance or information. To find a center near you, use the DRC Locator or text DRC and your ZIP code to 43362. Example: DRC 10029.
Disaster Relief Resources and Temporary Sheltering Assistance
► You can apply online or with the FEMA App to manage your disaster application. Your Social Security Number (SSN) is required.
► If you are eligible for Transitional Sheltering Assistance, FEMA will pay the cost to stay in certain lodging providers for a limited period. Costs covered are for the cost of the room and taxes, and any other expenses are not included. Search the list of participating locations to see if they have availability in the area you have selected.
► Find open shelters with the American Red Cross Greater NYC
Disaster Unemployment Assistance
DUA is a federal program that provides payments to people in a federally declared disaster area who have lost work or income as a direct result of the disaster. You must first file for regular Unemployment Insurance by calling the NYS Department of Labor at 888-209-8124.
Help with Expenses After a Disaster
You can apply to the NYC Human Resources Administration for a one-time emergency grant, also called the “One Shot Deal.” Call (718) 557-1399 for more information.
Coping with Stress Related to Disasters
The NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene helps New Yorkers. Contact NYC Well at 888-692-9355 for counseling and resources.
Information Resources
► Preparedness Actions Education
► NYC Emergency Management Office 311 (212-639-9675 for Video Relay Service, or TTY: 212-504-4115)
► Notify NYC App
► Know Your Zone (Hurricanes)
City of New York Fire Department
Dial 911 to report emergencies (fire, smoke, fumes, an odor of gas)
Help with Emergency Expenses with NYC
If There is a Fire
► Do not try to fight the fire yourself.
► Get out and stay out. Do not try to gather personal possessions.
► Close the door on your way out.
► If smoke is present, exit as low to the ground as possible and keep your mouth covered.
► Call 911 once you reach a safe location.
►If any part of you or your clothing catches fire, do not run or try to put out the fire with your hands. Cover your face with your hands and drop to the ground and roll over and over.
Find the Nearest Hospital
Find the nearest hospitals in your area and view what services each provides with the US Hospital Finder.
Emergency Relocation Services
The Emergency Housing Services (EHS) unit provides emergency relocation services and rehousing assistance to households who have been displaced from their homes as a result of fires or city-issued vacate orders. Displaced households are placed in family centers and single-room-occupancy hotels in Manhattan, Bronx, Brooklyn, and Queens. Call 212-863-8561 for rehousing assistance. Learn more here.
Help with Expenses in NYC
You can apply to the NYC Human Resources Administration for a one-time emergency grant, also called the “One Shot Deal.” Call (718) 557-1399 for more information.
Recovery After a Fire
► If you need help after a home fire, contact the American Red Cross Greater NYC by calling at (877) 733-2767. Learn more here.
► Take the appropriate steps to stay safe. Learn how to with the “Checking your Home After a Fire Guide”.
Request a Smoke Alarm
The American Red Cross Home Fire Campaign helps save lives by installing free smoke alarms in homes that don’t have them, and by educating people about home fire safety. Request a smoke alarm.
To receive mobile internet and/or phone discounts, check if your current phone or internet provider offers it or enroll in a company that does. Check the companies’ lifeline programs below.
– AT&T www.att.com/wirelesslifeline
– Spectrum www.spectrum.net/support/home-phone/new-york-lifeline-phone-credit
– T-Mobile en.t-mobilepr.com/Lifeline
– Verizon www.verizon.com/support/residential/account/manage-account/lifeline-discount
–> Your income is at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines OR
–> You participate in one of the following programs
— Supplemental Security Income (SSI) OR
— Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly Food Stamps OR
— Medicaid OR
— Federal Public Housing Assistance OR
— Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) OR
— Family Assistance/Safety Net Assistance OR
— National School Lunch Program
Household Size
1 $18,347
2 $24,719
3 $31,091
4 $37,463
5 $43,835
6 $50,207
7 $56,579
8 $62,951
Add $6,372 for each additional person.
Visit www.lifelinesupport.org or call 1-800-234-9473 for the latest income guidelines.
Lifeline eligibility is automatically verified annually. Each household gets one Lifeline discount. You can apply to Lifeline in two different ways, depending on the type of benefit you get, whether federal or state-based.
If you receive benefits from state programs like HEAP or the school lunch program, ask your phone company about their Lifeline Program when you call them.
If you receive benefits from a federal program like SNAP or Medicaid, you should send your application to the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC), which runs the government Lifeline program. To see if you are eligible for the program and to apply, go to www.usac.org.
Updated on July 14, 2024
IN AN EMERGENCY
Call 911 when you are in immediate danger or witness a crime in progress. Call 911 if you have a serious injury or life-threatening medical condition.
CONTACTING THE CITY
311 (212-639-9675 for Video Relay Service, or TTY: 212-504-4115)
or visit NYC.gov when you need access to non-emergency services or information about City government programs. Do not call 311 for emergencies. 311 outside of New York City is 212-NEW-YORK (212-639-9675).
CONTACTING THE NEW YORK POLICE DEPARTMENT
Call 911 when you are in immediate danger or witness a crime in progress.
NYPD General Inquiries: 646-610-5000
NYC victim hotline number: 866-689-4357
Sex Crimes Report Line: 212-267-RAPE
Crime Stoppers: 800-577-TIPS
Crime Stoppers (Spanish): 888-57-PISTA
Missing Persons Case Status: 212-694-7781
Terrorism Hot-Line: 888-NYC-SAFE
Gun Stop Program: 866-GUN-STOP
Cop Shot: 800-COP-SHOT
Local Precincts
TO REPORT A UTILITY OUTAGE
Con Edison 24-hour hotline: 1-800-752-6633 (TTY: 800-642-2308)
PSEG Long Island 24-hour hotline: 1-800-490-0025 (TTY: 631-755-6660)
National Grid 24-hour hotline: 718-643-4050 (TTY: 718-237-2857)
GET INFORMED
NYC Emergency Management on Facebook and Twitter
www.facebook.com/NYCemergencymanagement | @nycemergencymgt
Notify NYC
Register for free emergency notifications by getting the free mobile application, visiting NYC.gov/notifynyc, calling 311, or following @NotifyNYC on Twitter.
Download a City Emergency Reference Card.
To obtain free and secure assistance with immigration legal matters, don’t hesitate to contact the city’s immigration legal hotline at 800-354-0365 or 212-788-7654. The hotline is available from Monday to Friday, between 9 AM and 5 p.m. Otherwise, see other resources below.
Make the Road NY is community organization that helps people with legal services in the areas of immigration, housing, employment, and benefits for everyone. Call their main office in Brooklyn at (718) 418-7690 or see all of their offices (Bushwick (Brooklyn), Jackson Heights (Queens), Port Richmond (Staten Island), Brentwood (Long Island), and White Plains (Westchester)) addresses here.
The Immigration Defense Practice is a non-profit law firm that help the immigration consequences of involvement in criminal justice and child welfare systems.
Immigration attorneys are dedicated to defending people facing individuals deportation in Immigration Court. They also provide assistance with benefits such as adjustment of status, renewal of work permits and green cards, citizenship applications, asylum claims, and DACA.
If you or someone you know would like legal support regarding immigration, consider calling NDS at (212) 876-5500.
The Bronx Defenders, a legal aid organization, is based in the South Bronx and provides a range of services to clients and community members. Their lawyers represent Bronx residents in Criminal, Family, Housing, and Immigration Court proceedings.
If the police or child welfare agency (ACS) has contacted you and you do not have legal representation, consider calling the Bronx Defenders’ legal emergency hotline at 347-778-1266 or visiting their office at 360 161st Street, Bronx, New York. Learn more about their services by visiting their website at https://www.bronxdefenders.org/clients-community/help.
If you need help with someone who has been arrested or detained by ICE, call BD Immigration Practice at (718) 564-6290. If you need advice about your immigration status, contact the Immigration Practice at (718) 564-6290.
To learn more about your Brooklyn Defenders, visit their website at https://bds.org/get-help#ice-or-deportation.
Everyone who lives in New York City and is at least ten years old can get a free IDNYC card. Find out how to get one at https://a069-idnyconlineportal.nyc.gov/IOPWeb. Anyone in New York can get an IDNYC, no matter their citizenship, residency, visa, or legal immigration situation.
There are low-cost or free health services in New York City for New Yorkers who do not qualify for or cannot afford health insurance based on federal guidelines. Please see the options below.
NYC Health + Hospitals, also known as H+H, offers emergency care, general health care, check-ups, immunizations, and more. To reach the center closest to you, call 718-387-6407. To sign up for health care plans, such as the NYC Care program, call 646-NYC-CARE (646-692-2273) or go to nyccare.nyc.
A free clinic is a private, non-profit, community-based group that helps low-income, uninsured, or underinsured people get medical care for little or no cost. They do this by working with other health providers paid by federal programs or using volunteer medical professionals. See a directory of clinics in the linked handouts below.
Manhattan cap4kids.org/newyorkcity/files/manhattan-affordable-care.pdf
Bronx cap4kids.org/newyorkcity/files/bronx-affordable-care.pdf
Brooklyn cap4kids.org/newyorkcity/files/brooklyn-affordable-care.pdf
Queens cap4kids.org/newyorkcity/files/queens-affordable-care.pdf
Staten Island cap4kids.org/newyorkcity/files/staten-island-affordable-care.pdf
Pregnant people can get free Medicaid care through the New York State Department of Health.
To learn more about Medicaid for pregnant people, go to access.nyc.gov/programs/medicaid-for-pregnant-women.
Child Heath Plus
Your child is eligible for Child Health Plus if:
– It is less than 19 years old.
– It is not eligible for Children Medicaid.
– It cannot be covered by other health insurance.
– It resides in New York State, no matter its immigration status.
One of the good things about Child Health Plus is that there are no annual deductibles. You can also sign up your kid for it at any time of the year through the NY State of Health.
Learn if your child qualifies for either Medicaid or Child Health Plus at health.ny.gov/health_care/child_health_plus/eligibility_and_cost. For other questions, call this toll-free number: 1-800-698-4KIDS (1-800-698-4543), and ask about Child Health Plus or Children’s Medicaid. If you are hearing impaired, call the TTY number, 1-877-898-5849.
Union Square Eye Care
Receive excellent, thorough, and focused family eye care. Walk-ins, same-day appointments, and patients of all ages are welcome at the clinic. The facility offers sliding-scale services to those without eye insurance and takes Medicaid and most insurances. No patient is turned away.
Harlem Location. 1815 Madison Avenue@118th Street, New York, NY 10035 . Phone: 212-844-2020 | Fax: 212-844-1141
Hours of operation: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm
Bus: M1, M116,M102 | Subway: 2,3,6 to 116th.
Schedule an appointment here.
Union Square Location. 235 Park Avenue South – 2nd(19th St), New York, NY 10003. Phone: 212-844-2020 | Fax: 212-844-8221
Hours of operation: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm | Subway: 4,5,6,L,Q,N,R,W to 14th | Bus: M1,M2 or M3 to 18th St
Schedule an appointment here.
Find more information at www.usqeyecare.com.
Updated on May 16, 2024
FQHCs use a sliding fee scale based on your income, so you pay what you can afford. The scale provides discounts based on your family size and income.
Locate a Federally Qualified Health Center by address or county at findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov.
Sign up for an employment event, find training opportunities, or participate in workshops and services to help you prepare for job interviews. Learn more at jobs.nyc.gov.
Take Good Care of Your Baby Website
The Administation of Child Services of NYC put together a child safety booklet that gives parents and caregivers tips on how to avoid some of the most common and dangerous child and infant-related injuries, including window falls, drowning, shaken baby syndrome, and unintended poisonings in the home.
The booklet is available in English, Spanish, Traditional Chinese, and Korean.
The Family Assessment Program (FAP) Website
Bronx: (718) 664-1800 | Brooklyn: (646) 584-5178 / 347-907-0464 / (646) 584-8935
Manhattan: (212) 341-0012 | Queens: (646) 599-3308 / (718) 725-3244 | Staten Island: (718) 720-0418 / (646) 276-4170
FAPinquiry@acs.nyc.gov
The Family Assessment Program (FAP) by the Administration of Child Services (ACS) provides support to families that are struggling with everyday challenges. FAP works to strengthen families, reduce conflict, and connect your family to many services that provide ongoing support in your community. It helps families handle concerns such as a child running away, skipping school, or disruptive behavior, without having to go to court.
FAP offices are currently closed to the public, but all inquiries and assessments can be done via phone and/or video. FAP connect families to evidence-based therapeutic services as well as community-based organizations. Please reach FAP by email FAPinquiry@acs.nyc.gov and by phone.
The email box and phones are answered Monday through Friday 9-5, and all messages will be returned.
If you’re uncomfortable outside, remember that these safe spaces are available to help you. In the summer, locate heating centers near you at https://maps.nyc.gov/cooling-center.
Updated on October 21st, 2024
To get commercial health insurance you must enroll as client in the New York State (NYS) Marketplace. To qualify you must be a New York state resident, US citizen, national, or lawfully present immigrant.
If you are eligible for public health insurance like Child Health Plus or NYS Medicaid (based on your income), different immigration rules may apply. Please note that current incarceration disqualifies eligibility.
Learn more about the health insurance marketplace and plans at nystateofhealth.ny.gov. For a guide about health services coverage go to healthinsurance.org/states/health-insurance-new-york.
NYPL
Locations (Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island)
Get a Library Card
Search for classes, location, and dates here at www.nypl.org/events/classes/. NYPL has more than 93,000 programs every year, for everyone from toddlers to teens to seniors. Find classes to improve English speaking, computer training, career and employment, and even starting your new business.
Busca clases, ubicaciones y fechas de cursos aquí en www.nypl.org/events/classes. NYPL tiene más de 93.000 programas cada año, para todos, desde niños pequeños hasta adolescentes y adultos mayores. Encuentra clases para mejorar el inglés, capacitación en computación, preparación para aplicación a empleos, e incluso clases para comenzar tu propio negocio
Updated on December 16, 2020
Connect with www.includenyc.org to get informational support about:
To learn more about INCLUDEnyc’s informational services visit their website at includenyc.org/help-center/resources or contact them via:
Updated on October 11, 2024
AFC helps children from low-income families from the moment they are born until they are 26 years old. To get services, call their education support at (866) 427-6033 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Thursday, or email info@advocatesforchildren.org.
In addition, AFC also offers free workshops and training sessions to help parents develop the skills to advocate for their children successfully. Check out their website for event information at https://advocatesforchildren.org.
OTHER SPECIAL NEEDS ADVOCACY RESOURCES
• Information about supports, services, and the special education process
https://includenyc.org/help-center
English (212) 677-4660
Español/Spanish (212) 677-4668
• Laws and Regulations Related to Special Education and Students with Disabilities
www.nysed.gov/special-education/laws-and-regulations-related-special-education-and-students-disabilities
• Resolving Disputes with Your School with Due Process Hearings
www.nyc.gov/site/oath/special-ed/due-process-hearings.page
• Legal Help
— Assistance with Legal Services NYC (non-profit)
www.legalservicesnyc.org/what-we-do/practice-areas-and-projects/access-to-education
The legal assistance hotline is open Monday through Friday from 9:30 am to 4 pm. Call 917-661-4500 to speak to an intake officer in any language.
— Assistance with Legal Aid NYC (non-profit)
legalaidnyc.org/get-help
You can reach any Legal Aid staff member by calling their main number, 212-577-3300.
Updated on May 29, 2024
Literacy Partners
75 Maiden Lane, Suite 1102, New York, NY 10038 (Financial District)
212-725-9200 | class@literacypartners.org
COVID-19 Update: Literacy Partners has cancelled in-person classes and is instead conducting them online to the extent possible.
Actualización COVID-19: Literacy Partners ha cancelado las clases presenciales y estas serán conducidas en línea dentro de lo posible.
Literacy Partners provide free classes and community workshops to caregivers to help them develop literacy and language skills that they need to succeed.
Classes benefit parents and children in all five boroughs.
Programs:
—English Classes for Parents: English classes help students acquire speaking, listening, reading, writing, and grammar skills. For more information, contact class@literacypartners.org or 646-237-0108.
—Liz Smith Adult Basic Literacy Program: Helps absolute beginning readers to dramatically improve their literacy skills, discover the joy of reading, and have a meaningful opportunity to tell their story. For more information, contact class@literacypartners.org or 646-237-0108.
—Leadership for Education and Parenting (LEAP): LEAP is an innovative program for young adults seeking to achieve their high school equivalency (HSE) degree. For more information, contact class@literacypartners.org or 646-237-0108.
—English Conversation Classes: Literacy Partners provides English conversation practice groups where immigrant New Yorkers learn about free city resources, build their confidence, and share their personal triumphs and challenges in two-hour classes. For more information, contact Adriane at adrianel@literacypartners.org or 646-237-0163.
—Learning Together Workshops: They are a safe and supportive environment where parents connect with each other, build the activities and skills they show up with, as well as learn new skills that will help them improve their children’s early literacy, language, and emotional development.
Literacy Partners (Aliados para la Alfabetización) ofrecen clases, talleres, y educación multimedia a padres de familia para que desarrollen habilidades de lectura y lenguaje que necesitarán para ser exitosos. Las clases benefician a residentes de todos los 5 condados.
Programas
—Clases de inglés: Las clases de inglés ayudan a estudiantes a adquirir habilidades de conversación, escucha, lectura, escritura y gramática. Para más información envía un correo a class@literacypartners.org o llama al 646-237-0108.
—Programa de Alfabetización Adulta Liz Smith : Ayuda a lectores principiantes para que mejoren dramáticamente sus habilidades de lectura, descubran el gozo por leer, y tengan la oportunidad de contar sus historias. Para más información envía un correo a class@literacypartners.org o llama al 646-237-0108.
—Liderazgo en Educación y Crianza (LEAP por sus siglas en inglés): LEAP un programa innovador para adultos jóvenes que buscan obtener la equivalencia de la eduicación secundaria. Para más información envía un correo a class@literacypartners.org o llama al 646-237-0108.
—Clases de Conversación en Inglés: Literacy Partners prácticas de conversación en inglés en grupos donde inmigrantes Neoyorquinos aprenden acerca de recursos gratuitos de la ciudad, cultivan su autoconfianza, y comparten retos y triunfos personales durante 2 horas. Para más información contacta a Adriana enviando un correo al adrianel@literacypartners.org o llamando al 646-237-0163.
—Learning Together Workshops: Los talleres ocurren en un ambiente seguro y con apoyo donde los padres se conectan uno con otros y aprenden nuevas habilidades que ayudarán con la enseñanza de sus hijos, el desarollo de su lenguaje y sus emociones.
Updated on August 16,2020
Benjamin’s Pharmacy & Surgical | benjamins-pharmacy-surgical.business.site
989 Allerton Ave, The Bronx, NY 10469
(718) 405-9111 (Hablan Español/Staff also speaks Spanish)
FORMULA IS AVAILABLE: The pharmacy has the majority of brands available except for Neosure. Please call to place your order!
Call 718-405-9111 and ask for free baby formula. WIC members can have baby formula delivered FREE (prescription or non-prescription formulas) to all New York City boroughs. For special baby formula, please provide the name of the prescribed formula to the staff and they will verify with you if covered by WIC.
For WIC exempt formulas, your pediatrician will need to provide medical documentation to your WIC office. Your social worker may assist with this request.
See regular and special baby formulas covered by WIC at health.ny.gov/prevention/nutrition/wic/approved_formulas.htm.
Llama al 718-405-9111 de la farmacia Benjamin ubicada en el Sur del Bronx para domicilios gratuitos de leche de fórmula cubierta por WIC. La farmacia hace domicilios en todos los condados de la ciudad de Nueva York.
Para leche de formula prescrita por el doctor, llama a la farmacia y describe el nombre de la leche. El trabajador de la farmacia verificará si la formula es cubierta por WIC.
Recuerda que para fórmulas médicas especiales, tu pediatra deberá proporcionar justificación médica a tu oficina de WIC. Una vez completada y aprobada la solicitud, podrás obtener la leche de prescripción con WIC. Un trabajador social podrá ayudarte y sigue el caso con tu oficina WIC.
Revisa las fórmulas para bebés regulares y especiales cubiertas por el beneficio de WIC en health.ny.gov/prevention/nutrition/wic/approved_formulas.htm.
AVAIL NYC
115 W. 45th Street, 4th Floor New York, NY 10036 (Midtown Manhattan)
(212) 689-1705
Text 234-201-0532
support@availnyc.org
AVAIL exists to be a safe haven for women and men facing an unexpected pregnancy. Client advocates will provide you with the information and support you need to make a decision about how to move forward. Avail is not a medical provider.
Ongoing social, emotional, and spiritual support; Resources, including information on insurance, nursery-care subsidy programs, housing, and work programs are offered. Expectant parents are encouraged to continue to meet one-on-one with a client advocate for individualized support through their pregnancy and decision making.
Services
Unexpected pregnancy, after abortion, parenting support, healthy relationships, partners & men.
Contact
— Call during business hours to schedule an appointment or ask a question
— Text 234-201-0532 to have a short consultation or ask a question
— Email if you prefer email, reach AVAIL at support@availnyc.org
Updated on February 16, 2023
To learn more about Medicaid for Pregnant Women go to access.nyc.gov/programs/medicaid-for-pregnant-women.
Updated on February 26, 2024
nyc.gov/site/doh/health/neighborhood-health/healthy-start-brooklyn.page
(844) 919-1123
HealthyStartBrooklyn@health.nyc.gov
Healthy Start Brooklyn provides a variety of support programs and classes for expectant and new parents who live in Brooklyn.
Eligibility
All expectant or new parents living in Brooklyn are eligible.
Services
Education and support about pregnancy, childbirth, parenting, breastfeeding, fatherhood, and healthy living.
Learn more about the Healthy Start Brooklyn Programs here.
Heatlhy Start Brooklyn ofrece variedad de clases y programas de apoyo para familias en embarazo y nuevos padres. Recibe educación acerca del proceso del embarazo, el nacimiento de tu bebé, crianza, lactancia materna, paternidad para hombres, y estilos de vida saludable.
Todas las familias embarazadas y nuevos papás que residan en Brooklyn califican para los servicios de Healthy Start.
Aprende más visitando Healthy Start Brooklyn manejado por el Departamento de Salud.
Updated on February 16, 2023
Website
Text BABY (or BEBE for Spanish) to 511411
FAQ
The free Text4baby app makes it easy for you to get critical health and safety information. As the perfect companion to text messages sent by text4baby, you can get more health and safety tips and access fun, interactive features, including how your baby is growing each week, your progress and medical updates, quizzes, and appointment reminders.
Text messages are free for people who have pay-as-you-go or pre-paid cell phones. Learn more here.
Text4baby es una aplicación móvil gratis donde podrás aprender acerca de la salud, seguridad de tu embarazo y la de tu bebé. Además de recibir mensajes de texto, tendrás acceso a funciones interactivas con información acerca del crecimiento de tu bebé cada semana, notificaciones médicas, tests, y recordatorios de citas con el doctor.
Los mensajes de texto no tendrán cobro para cuentas de celulares prepagadas.
Updated on July 20, 2020
roomtogrow.org
(212) 620-7800 | infony@roomtogrow.org
For more than 20 years, Room to Grow’s three-year program has provided critical support to families raising babies born into low-income circumstances.
Eligibility
— Expecting families of all types are welcome to apply.
— Families who are eligible for benefits such as SNAP, WIC, TANF, etc.
— There are no requirements around citizenship, age, marital or relationship status, or number of children.
Services
Room to Grow provides parents and caregivers with:
— Essential baby and toddler items.
— Strategies and support to promote their children’s development.
— Connections to community resources that can meaningfully expand their support network.
— Currently, the program is offered in English and Spanish.
If you would like to learn more about parenting & helping your baby develop, consider applying to Room to Grow at tfaforms.com/4855621. Call (212) 620-7800 for more information.
Updated on February 16, 2023
Nurse-Family Partnerhip (serving all boroughs)
Call 311 and ask for “Nurse-Family Partnership”
Maternal and child health nurses are the backbone of the Nurse-Family Partnership. A nurse-led maternal health and home visitation program, Nurse-Family Partnership partners serve low-income, first-time moms.
Moms with their very own free Nurse-Family Partnership personal nurse will get the support, advice, and information they need during their pregnancy and when their baby arrives.
Eligibility
NYC Nurse-Family Partnership is available to anyone in New York City who:
— Is 28 weeks pregnant or less with their first baby.
— Meets income requirements.
— Are first-time mothers, regardless of age, immigration status or gender identity.
Services
Your nurse will support you to:
— Know what to expect during pregnancy and childbirth.
— Learn how to take care of your baby (feeding, bathing, safe sleep, and more).
— Understand how babies learn and grow.
Learn about eligibility criteria by calling your nearest NFP agency. Locate your agency on the NFP homepage.
Updated on February 16, 2023
Her Justice is a non-profit law firm that assists low-income New York City women with serious legal issues who have been victims of domestic abuse.
Her justice offers support through legal advice on orders of protection, child custody, visitation, child support, and divorce. If you have been a victim of violence and you are an immigrant, you can be helped with battered spouse waivers and U-Non-Immigrant-Status petitions under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA).
Contact them at 212-695-3800 (not a hotline). Learn more about their educational and legal services by visiting https://herjustice.org.
Updated on May 29, 2024
To file a child support petition, visit the Human Resources Administration (HRA) website at www.nyc.gov/site/hra/help/child-support-services.page.
Through the Office of Child Support Services (OCCS), the HRA will receive, process, and assist you in getting the following services:
• Locating your child’s other parent
• Formalizing parenting arrangements
• Establishing a support order (this opens the case in Family Court) and
• Facilitating funds transfers to you
You don’t have to be a citizen to get this service and you won’t be asked about your immigration status.
For more information, visit access.nyc.gov/programs/child-support-enforcement or email dcse.cseweb@dfa.state.ny.us.
Resources
• Office of Child Support Services (OCSS)
www.nyc.gov/site/hra/help/child-support-services.page
• NYC ACCESS HRA Child Support Mobile App
www.nyc.gov/site/hra/help/childsupportmobile.page
• Child Support Calculator
https://www.nyc.gov/site/hra/help/child-support-calculator.page
• Technology needs with Computers, Internet, Phones, Scanners, Printers
familylegalcare.org/techhub
• Custody and Visitations
ww2.nycourts.gov/COURTS/nyc/family/faqs_custodyandvisitation.shtml
• Legal Help
familylegalcare.org/how-family-legal-care-helps
Updated on May 29, 2024
Home Water Assistance Program Website
Department of Environmental Protection
311
If you’re an eligible low-income homeowner, you can get an annual, non-refundable credit of $115.89 through the Home Water Assistance Program (HWAP). You do not have to enroll in the Home Water Assistance Program.
If you’re an eligible homeowner, you will automatically get a credit on your water and sewer account. A credit for $115.89 will appear on the first DEP bill received after the credit is applied. The transaction will be labeled “NYC Home Water Assistance Credit.”
Call 311 for assistance.
Learn if you qualify here.
Updated on September 2, 2020
Fatherhood Initiative
Ask about the program at 800-246-4646 or 646-343-6800 to find out how to enroll
DYCD’s Fatherhood Initiative helps fathers reconnect with their children and develop essential parenting skills by helping each participant (1) increase engagement and responsibility in his relationship with his child/children; and (2) provide material and financial support to his child/children
Services provided by the program:
El programa Iniciativa para Padres (seleccione en la parte superior de la página en Translate “Spanish”) ayuda a papas a reconectarse con sus niños y poder desarrollar habilidades de crianza. Cada participante será apoyado para que 1) aumente su compromiso y responsibilidad en su relación con su(s) hijo(s) y 2) obtenga apoyo económico y material.
Los servicios que brinda el programa son:
-Consejería individual y familiar
-Asistencia con manutención y arreglos para las visitas con su hijo
-Entrenamiento en mediación y resolución de conflicto
-Consejería laboral y remisiones para equivalencia secundaria y clases de inglés
-Mentoría padre-a-padre
Visit the NYS Parent Portal at nysparentguide.org/growth-and-development to learn more about how to be a better parent for your child and to find out about growth milestones and norms that help keep kids safe and healthy.
Environmental Health experts have put together some recommendations for keeping your family healthy at home, along with links to other accurate information and useful resources at https://nyscheck.org/covid.
Learn how to keep your home safe and healthy with Dr. Nicholas Newman from the Cincinnati Children’s Hospital.
Español: Aprende cómo mantener tu casa segura y saludable con Dr. Nicholas Newman del Hospital de Niños en Cincinnati.
Search EPA’s list of products for use against SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19 here.
Español: Busca la lista de productos aprobados por la EPA para eliminar SARS-CoV-2, el virus que ocasiona COVID-19 aquí.
mothertobaby.org
Call (585) 275-3638 or 1 (844) 352-3420 (toll-free)
MotherToBaby@urmc.rochester.edu
MotherToBaby NY specializes in answering questions about the benefit/risk of exposures, such as medications, vaccines, chemicals, herbal products, substances of abuse, maternal health conditions and much more, during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Informational services are available at no cost to people who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding, their family members, health professionals, and the general public via chat, text, phone, and email in both English and Spanish.
For inquiries call 800-724-2454 or submit your questions online on this site.
Updated on February 16, 2023
You need a doctor’s referral to make an appointment. The Montefiore Lead Center is located at 3415 Bainbridge Avenue, Bronx, NY 10467.
When you come to the Children’s Hospital at Montefiore for an appointment, please bring:
1. The patient’s latest blood lead level results
2. Information about recent renovations or changes in the home
3. Any inspection reports from the Department of Health or the Department of Housing
4. Other details about possible sources of lead exposure
5. The referral document from your doctor.
Contact the Montefiore Regional Lead Treatment and Prevention Center at (718) 547-2789 or email LeadProgram@montefiore.org for more information.
Updated on October 21st, 2024
It’s important that you continue to pay your energy bills as usual.
Through several program components, HEAP provides people with cash benefits to:
— Help pay heating and electricity bills every month 2 (HEAP Regular)
— Get a window- or portable- air conditioner (AC) – (Cooling Assistance)
— An emergency cash benefit to help pay bills when utilities are about to be turned off (HEAP Emergency)
— Cash to clean hot equipment – (Clean and Tune)
— Cash to help fix or replace hot or cold equipment – (HERR)
The amount of cash benefit you will receive depends on your household’s income, the number of people in your household, and whether heat and utilities are included in your rent or paid separately. If you pay your electricity provider directly, you may receive cash or credit from them, and New York State will reimburse the provider.
To be eligible for the HEAP Regular program:
— Someone in your family is a citizen or qualified non-citizen of the United States (lawful permanent resident; refugee; asylee; battered spouse and children; victim of trafficking; or individual from certain countries), AND
— Your monthly income from all sources, like returns, discounts, and allowances before taking out any costs or taxes for your family, is at or below the current income guidelines for the size of your family, AND
— You get assistance from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP,) OR
— You are given temporary assistance (TA), OR
– Your Social Security Income (SSI) code is A, which means you receive additional funds for living alone.
Find the most current income guidelines at access.nyc.gov/programs/home-energy-assistance-program-heap/#determine-your-eligibility.
**HEAP regular applications usually begin in November**
To apply for financial aid, create a Human Resource Administration (HRA) account at a069-access.nyc.gov/accesshra and start your application. The HEAP application form is also available at www.nyc.gov/assets/hra/downloads/pdf/heap_application.pdf. **Remember that your name must be on the electricity bill to get the benefit**
For instructions on how to fill out the HEAP Regular benefit application form, go to page 2 of this PDF www.nyc.gov/assets/hra/downloads/pdf/heap_application.pdf. After you send in your application, you may be called for a phone interview to determine your eligibility. Apply in person by going to an HRA Benefits Access Center or a community outreach location near you otda.ny.gov/programs/heap/contacts/default.asp?county=New%20York%20City#result.
**Certain types of income, including loans, reimbursement for employment or medical expenses, foster care payments, and earned income tax credits, are not considered in determining eligibility for HEAP. Also, assets are not considered eligible for HEAP.**
You may be eligible for an Emergency HEAP benefit if:
— The heating and/or electric bill is in your name, AND
— Your household’s available resources are:
—less than $2,500 OR
—less than $3,750 if any member of your household is age 60 or older or under age 6.
AND
— Your household’s total monthly income is at or below the current income guides for your household size as posted in the table below, OR
— You receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, OR
— You receive Temporary Assistance (TA), OR
— You receive Code A Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Living Alone
Apply Over the phone by contacting the Human Resources Administration (HRA) at (718) 557-1399. Their working hours are Monday through Friday: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
We advise to call at 8 a.m. to get to staff. You may need your own interpreter.
HEAP Emergency Application Form: www.nyc.gov/assets/hra/downloads/pdf/services/energy_assistance/LDSS-3421.pdf.
Eligibility
Families who do not have alternative housing options will be offered a permanent shelter placement. Families with children younger than 21, families with a pregnant woman, and pregnant women are eligible.
Services
PATH will identify housing needs, provide resources to help prevent homelessness, and place families experiencing homelessness in a shelter. All families will be offered a temporary shelter placement during the application process. Interpreter assistance will be available.
How It Works
Once you arrive at PATH, you will first be interviewed by a Human Resources Administration (HRA) caseworker. The caseworker will inquire about your living situation and explain the services that may help you avoid entering shelter, including family mediation, anti-eviction legal services, out-of-city relocation assistance, the Family Homelessness Eviction Prevention Supplement (FHEPS), or a One-Shot Deal through HRA.
You may be assigned a temporary shelter placement for up to 10 days while DHS investigates the information provided during the interview. Based on the investigation, DHS determines whether you are eligible for shelter based on whether you have fully cooperated with the application and eligibility process, and have other housing options available. Reasons you might be denied shelter include:
If the shelter system deems you ineligible for shelter, you have the right to reapply by phone. The phone number will be provided on your denial notice. However, if you are logged out of the shelter system, you must visit the shelter in person to reopen the application process.
Updated on October 7, 2024
Region 2 Pediatric Environmental Health Specialty Unit (PEHSU)
Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
866-265-6201
The Region 2 Pediatric Environmental Health Specialty Unit (PEHSU) is a Center of Excellence at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai serving New Jersey, New York, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
PEHSU is dedicated to protecting children from environmental hazards, and improving awareness of children’s health issues, especially chronic, low-level exposures to air and water pollution, heavy metals such as lead and mercury, asthma triggers such as mold, pesticides, and chemicals in consumer products.
Services
• Consultations with primary care doctors and allied health professionals on the medical management of environmentally related diseases in their patients
• Guidance and practical advice to reduce exposures to environmental toxins
• Education and outreach activities to healthcare professionals and communities
PEHSU brochure.
Spanish PEHSU brochure.
MAKE A REFERRAL
La Unidad Pediatrica Especializada en Salud Ambiental (PEHSU por sus siglas en inglés) es un centro de Excelencia en La Escuela de Medicina del Monte Sinaí que sirve a la población de Nueva Jersey, Nueva York, Puerto Rico, y las Islas Virgenes de EE.UU.
PEHSU se dedicada a proteger a los niños de peligros ambientales como la exposición crónica a bajos niveles de aire contaminado y agua, metales pesados, desencadenantes de asma como el moho, pesticidas, y químicos presentes en los productos de los consumidores.
Los servicios que ofrecen la unidad son: consultas con doctores de salud primaria, guia y consejos prácticos para reducir exposiciones a toxinas ambientales, y educación para profesionales de la salud y comunidad. Encuentre más información aquí.
SOLICITAR SERVICIOS
Go to any Fair Fares NYC location for assistance with the application process or to get a replacement card if yours is damaged or stolen. Go to nyc.gov/site/fairfares/contact-us to find an office.
Updated on February 27, 2024
Sanctuary for Families is a community organization available to support and advocate for victims of domestic violence, sex trafficking, and other types of gender-based violence in New York.
If you need help with housing, counseling, legal assistance, or managing your finances, don’t hesitate to call their helpline at (212) 349 – 6009. The line is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, and you can leave a text message at any other time.
For legal help with things like orders of protection, divorce, immigration, child support, child custody, visits, and support payments, connect with an advocate by calling (212) 349-6009, extension 1001, or texting (646) 692-0300.
Visit https://sanctuaryforfamilies.org to learn more about what Sanctuary for Families does for the community.
Updated on May 29, 2024
Upon reporting their mold concerns with the NYCHA’s Customer Care Centers (CCC), residents should ensure they receive timely assistance from the appropriate maintenance teams. If your work order has not been completed to your satisfaction, Mold Busters would advocate for you.
Mold Buster will help you get effective and thorough remediation procedures, ensuring that mold is removed and that underlying issues causing mold growth are also addressed.
Consider submitting your mold complaint to the Mold Buster with the Ombudsperson Call Center (OCC) at www.ombnyc.com. Keep in touch with the OCC for updates about your work order.
Updated on October 21st, 2024
Healthy Homes program: The NYC Department of Health provides extensive information on important home health and safety issues including carbon monoxide, hazardous products, and pest control. Visit https://www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/health/health-topics/healthy-home.page
Window Guards: For families with young children living in or visiting one’s home, the landlord is usually required to install window guards. Call 311 for more information or to lodge a complaint. To obtain information on installing window guards or a copy of the law or educational materials, call 311 or visit the website: https://www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/health/health-topics/window-guards.page
Carbon Monoxide poisoning: Most homes and residential buildings in NYC City are required by law to have carbon monoxide detectors installed in the sleeping areas. If you rent, the building owner is responsible for installing approved carbon monoxide detectors, and residents are responsible for regularly testing detectors to make sure they work and replacing the batteries.
Visit https://www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/health/health-topics/carbon-monoxide.page
Car seat safety: Get a free car seat safety fitting by a trained technician from the Department of Transit (DOT): https://www1.nyc.gov/html/dot/html/motorist/car-safety.
Check the NYC DOT Events Calendar for upcoming fittings, or call 212-839-4750 to arrange a free inspection at a DOT Child Car Seat Fitting Station.
Poison Control Center in New York City
(800) 222-1222
Offers instant help if the parent is worried a child has been exposed to a poison: (800) 222-1222
If someone has been potentially exposed to a poison and is awake and alert, you should call the NYC Poison Control Center immediately, even if there are no symptoms of poisoning. For ingested poisons, do not try to make the person throw up. If the person is unconscious, convulsing, having seizures or having trouble breathing call 911.
El Centro de Toxicología de la ciudad de Nueva York ofrece ayuda instantánea a padres de familia quienes sospechan que su hijo ha sufrido una intoxication.
Si alguien potencialmente estuvo expuesto a un tóxico o veneno, y está consciente y alerta, llame al Centro de Toxicología inmediatamente aún si la persona no presenta síntomas de envenenamiento.
Para tóxicos ingeridos no haga que la persona vomite. Si la persona está inconsciente, convulsiona, o tiene problemas para respirar llame al 911.
Updated on November 5, 2019
New York State Smoking Quit Line
Call (866) 697-8487 | Text (716) 309-4688
Monday-Thursday 9AM – 9PM | Friday-Sunday 9AM-5PM
Chat
New York State Smoking Quit Line provides free support to individuals who are interested in tobacco cessation.
Eligibility
New York State residents
How to Apply for Coaching or Nicotine Replacement Therapy
— Talk to a Quit Coach for help or questions about quitting
— Connect with a coach by phone (866) 697-8487, text (716) 309-4688 or chat at nysmokefree.com/Home/Contact
— Or asked to be contacted at nysmokefree.com/Home/Contact
Frequently Asked Questions
Updated on February 16, 2022
Upon a referral by a medical provider, this program provides thorough home inspections utilizing specialized equipment to measure lead levels accurately at different places in your home.
Additionally, participants will complete a detailed questionnaire to identify potential sources of lead exposure. To initiate a home inspection and access follow-up services, individuals are encouraged to obtain a referral from their healthcare provider to the city’s program.
NYSCEHC
212-824-7109
One Gustave L. Levy Place, Box 1057
Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029
The mission of NYS CEHC (or “NYSCHECK”) is to prevent, diagnose, and treat environmentally related conditions for families across New York State, and is the first state-based model for pediatric environmental health services in the country.
Main areas of work: clinical consultations, screening families for environmental health hazards, education and training to the healthcare community, promote programs and policies to protect children, community partnerships.
Prescriptions for Prevention: The NYSCEHC in collaboration with environmental pediatricians and partners created the “Prescriptions for Prevention”. The Rxs for Prevention provide guidance and advice for New York families to address common environmental health concerns such as safe disinfecting at home, lead, secondhand smoke, mold, and radon. Check them out here.
ESPAÑOL/SPANISH
La misión de los Centros de Salud Ambiental para Niños del Estado de Nueva York (NYS CEHC por sus siglas en inglés) es prevenir, diagnosticar, y tratar condiciones de salud relacionadas con el ambiente en las familias del estado de Nueva York. NYS CEHC es el primer modelo estatal de servicios para la salud ambiental en niños en los EE.UU.
Las principales áreas de trabajo son: consultas clínicas, tamizaje de riesgos para la salud ambiental, educación de la comunidad.
Prescripciones para la Prevención: NYS CEHC en colaboración con pediatras especializados en salud ambiental creó las “Prescripciones para la Prevención”. Estas prescripciones brindan guías y consejos acerca de inquietudes en salud ambiental como desinfección más segura en el hogar, plomo, humo de segunda mano, moho, y radón. Accédalas aquí.
Updated on November 5, 2019
These problems can be addressed through appropriate action steps, education, and home visit programs aimed at remediating pest or mold issues and underlying issues in your residence.
Below is a list of community-based organizations (CBOs) that can assist you:
Their services include comprehensive home inspections to identify and address issues related to common asthma triggers such as pests, mold, and poor air quality.
Families need to obtain a referral from a healthcare provider, such as a doctor or clinician, to access their services. This ensures the organization can effectively support those most in need of assistance.
For more information about AIRnyc and its resources, visit its website at www.air-nyc.org/our-programs. You can also contact them directly at (718) 577-2794 with any inquiries or to discuss the referral process.
LSA provide valuable resources through free home visits, including virtual home inspections and educational materials on asthma management. Additionally, they provide free bed covers to shield against dust mites, pest baits, and food containers.
LSA’s Community Health Workers are fluent in both English and Spanish. For more information, please visit www.littlesistersfamily.org/programs/environmental-health-services or contact them at (646) 672-5254. Your doctor or clinician may require a referral to obtain home environmental services.
HNP offers free home assessments for individuals who have reported pest problems at home. A healthcare provider should refer you to the HNP for a home assessment. Pediatricians should also refer their patients through the Citywide Immunization Registry (CIR).
Updated on October 21st, 2024
Harlem Location
1815 Madison Avenue@118th Street, New York, NY 10035 . Phone: 212-844-2020 | Fax: 212-844-1141
Hours of operation: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm
Bus: M1, M116,M102 | Subway: 2,3,6 to 116th.
Schedule an appointment here.
Union Square Location
235 Park Avenue South – 2nd(19th St), New York, NY 10003. Phone: 212-844-2020 | Fax: 212-844-8221
Hours of operation: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm | Subway: 4,5,6,L,Q,N,R,W to 14th | Bus: M1,M2 or M3 to 18th St
Schedule an appointment here.
Find more information at www.usqeyecare.com.
Updated on May 16, 2024
SCAN HARBOR
345 East 102nd St, 3rd Flr, New York, NY 10029
(212) 289-8030
info@scan-harbor.org
SCAN HARBOR is one of the largest children and youth services providers in East Harlem, Harlem, and South Bronx that serves families with children and youth “at risk”. Visit their site at https://www.scan-harbor.org/
SCAN HARBOR offers a wide range of programs including early childhood education, after-school programs, building job skills, counseling, tutoring, test preparation, nutrition help, cooking classes, violence prevention, a safe space for LGBTQ youth, and family services for domestic violence survivors, substance abuse and rehabilitation.
Workforce Development Program: the Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) / Academic Year Youth Employment each summer hires Harlem, East Harlem and South Bronx youth to work at SCAN HARBOR program sites and summer camps. SCAN-Harbor is also sponsoring a “first ever” Academic Year Youth Employment Program. Learn more.
SCAN HARBORes un proveedor de servicios para niños y jóvenes en East Harlem, West y Central Harlem, y el Sur del Bronx. Encuentra programas después de clases, educación de niñez temprana, tutoría escolar, preparación para exámenes, ayuda en nutrición y clases de cocina. Encuentra también un espacio seguro y servicios de prevención de violencia para la comunidad LGBTQ, sobrevivientes de violencia doméstica y afectados por el abuso de sustancias y rehabilitación.
Programa de Desarrollo Laboral: El programa de Empleo para la Juventud en el Verano (SYEP por sus siglas en inglés) contrata jóvenes de East Harlem y el Sur del Bronx para entrenarse en diversas ubicaciones de SCAN HARBOR y en campamentos de verano. Aprende más visitando esta página.
Aprende más sobre otros programas en SCAN HARBOR o llama al (212) 289-8030.
Updated November 27, 2023
Know that the public charge test only applies to certain programs and immigrants.
This information is an excerpt from and available at www.ilrc.org/latest-on-public-charge. Please find more details and resources at www.uscis.gov/green-card/green-card-processes-and-procedures/public-charge/public-charge-resource.
Updated on May 21, 2024
Learn about classes on basic literacy and numeracy, English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), high school diploma equivalency, enrichment and college, and career readiness from low cost to no cost in all of the 5 boroughs.
Adult Education handout.
Spanish Adult Education handout.
Encuentra una lista de clases disponibles acerca de lectura básica en inglés, matemáticas, clases de inglés, equivalencia de diploma de secundaria, enriquecimiento educativo, y preparación para la universidad en los 5 condados aquí.
You are eligible to earn weekly UI payments for up to 26 weeks per year. People who work part-time may be able to get assistance.
For questions about eligibility and the application process, please visit dol.ny.gov/unemployment-insurance-top-frequently-asked-questions or call the Department of Labor at 888-209-8124, Monday-Friday 8 AM-6 PM.
Learn more at dol.ny.gov/unemployment/file-your-first-claim-benefits.
Updated on February 26, 2024.
Call (800) 532-5274 Monday–Thursday 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. and Friday 8:30 a.m.- 4p.m. By email contact them at help@patientadvocate.org
For more information visit www.patientadvocate.org.
Updated on September 25, 2024