New York’s Rental Assistance Program Exceeds
Expectations More Than 4,000 Leases Signed in First Year

Advantage NY Begins Its Second Year

May 1, 2008 - Department of Homeless Services (DHS) Commissioner Robert V. Hess today highlighted that more than 4,000 families and individuals signed leases in progressing toward permanent housing through the Advantage NY program, which commenced in April, 2007. Commissioner Hess announced that Advantage NY, New York City’s local rental assistance program has skyrocketed in its first year, fostering independence and leading families and individuals to stable living situations with necessary counseling and support. At the HELP I shelter in Brooklyn, Hess discussed the positive community impact of the program and the substantial number of both families and individuals benefitting from the City’s assistance.

Advantage NY offers several different subsidies to fit both family and individual needs, as well as providing important support services such as aftercare, career counseling and financial planning. A second year of assistance is available to those who continue progress toward being self-sustaining. The City also works with participants to develop important financial skills, including matching contributions to a savings account in preparation for families living on their own.

“Advantage NY has surged past even my highest expectations. We are seeing one lease signed every 20 minutes – that’s exceptional progress. People are moving out of shelter faster and are building crucial nest eggs,” said DHS Commissioner Robert V. Hess. “As people leave Advantage NY, the City continues to support their hard work and partners with them through outreach programs.  Our HomeBase aftercare services keep in close contact to ensure continued success.”

HELP USA is a national not-for-profit organization with a mission to empower the homeless and others in need to become and remain self-reliant.  A leading DHS family shelter provider, the HELP I residence moved more than 250 families into permanent housing in 2007.

Of families involved with Advantage for nearly a year:

• 88 percent remain employed, working an average of 35 hours per week 
• Nine out of 10 are paying a $50 rent contribution 
• Two-thirds have bank accounts