Issue: The lack of available and affordable housing for people with mental health needs is prevalent in urban, suburban and rural communities throughout New York State. Many New Yorkers could transition to much less restrictive and less expensive alternatives if such options were made available. The priority populations for transition include homeless individuals and those in homeless shelters, those who currently live in adult homes in deplorable conditions, individuals with psychiatric disabilities living at home with aging parents, and individuals transitioning from the criminal justice system. Additional capacity in existing housing models, and development of new housing models, are necessary especially for these identified priority populations. The recently enacted NY/NY III agreement, which will provide housing options for thousands of homeless New York City residents, many with mental health needs, is an excellent step toward addressing the housing need for this population of people.

Action: 1) Provide additional resources for the development of alternative housing options for people with mental health needs and for assistance to help people with mental illness afford housing; 2) Replicate the NY/NY III agreement, statewide, to address the needs of those who are homeless.