Borden Avenue Shelter Veterans Raise Alarm Over Unsafe Conditions and Lack of Support

A recent public hearing addressed the challenges faced by veterans residing at the Borden Avenue shelter in Long Island City, New York. During the session, numerous speakers raised concerns about the conditions, support services, and management of the facility, emphasizing the need for improved resources and accountability.

Speakers noted that many veterans at Borden Avenue encounter significant obstacles, including a lack of access to proper mental health services and a violent environment that has led to tragic incidents, such as veteran overdoses. One veteran expressed frustration over feeling unsafe, stating that the shelter has not provided the support services promised, which include safe living conditions and access to community resources (Source: https://youtu.be/XmhlKCtLfN0&t=5765).

Advocates highlighted institutional barriers that hinder veterans’ ability to receive assistance. Recommendations included eliminating the proof of residency requirement, which complicates access for those experiencing homelessness. Veterans often lose vital documents during street sweeps, prolonging their time without housing (Source: https://youtu.be/XmhlKCtLfN0&t=5765). Additionally, there were calls to increase the income limit for housing vouchers, advocating for limits that align with local median income levels to bolster veterans’ chances of achieving self-sufficiency (Source: https://youtu.be/XmhlKCtLfN0&t=5765).

The conversation also touched on the overarching management issues within New York City’s Department of Homeless Services (DHS). Critics pointed out that DHS routinely blames vendor organizations, such as the Institute for Community Living, for service shortfalls. One speaker, who has firsthand experience at Borden Avenue, criticized DHS for failing to address persistent issues within the shelter system, asserting that bureaucratic mismanagement contributed to the unsafe conditions veterans face (Source: https://youtu.be/Oo8ZET9rUQ4&t=10692).

Community members further advocated for expanding the dialogue surrounding veterans’ needs and improving the selection of services within shelters. Suggestions included creating dedicated spaces for veterans’ organizations to facilitate communication and enhance support networks (Source: https://youtu.be/XmhlKCtLfN0&t=6483).

While external reports have indicated systemic issues within the shelter system, with a significant percentage of shelter entrants being recently released prisoners lacking community connections (Source: https://youtu.be/TiphmQiqSuM&t=2108), the focus during the hearing remained on addressing the specific needs of veterans.

Thus, the public hearing underscored an urgent call for reform in how New York City manages veterans’ services, highlighting the necessity of creating safer, more supportive environments for those who served.