In New York City, nonprofit volunteers are stepping up to support asylum-seekers facing new shelter restrictions. The organization Artists, Athletes and Advocates is working tirelessly to keep migrants housed amid increasing challenges, as the city grapples with a surge in asylum-seeker arrivals and limited resources.
Key Takeaways
- Nonprofit volunteers are crucial in assisting asylum-seekers amid shelter limitations.
- New regulations impose strict time limits on shelter stays for families and single adults.
- Many asylum-seekers face homelessness due to lack of support after eviction from shelters.
The Growing Crisis
Since April 2022, over 200,000 asylum migrants have arrived in New York City, fleeing violence and persecution. The city’s shelter population has more than doubled, with over 130,000 individuals sleeping in shelters each night. This influx has strained the city’s social services, leading to new regulations that limit the length of stay for asylum-seekers in city-run shelters.
Under the new rules, families are allowed a maximum of 60 days in shelters, while single adults face a stricter 30-day limit. Those seeking to extend their stay must reapply at designated centers, demonstrating extenuating circumstances and efforts to improve their situation.
The Role of Nonprofit Volunteers
Candice Braun, co-founder of Artists, Athletes and Advocates, has been at the forefront of this effort. Operating out of Metro Baptist Church in Hell’s Kitchen, the organization provides essential resources to migrants every Wednesday and Thursday. Braun and her team work diligently to keep clients housed and off the streets, often facing heartbreaking challenges.
"Someone got kicked out of a shelter," Braun noted, highlighting the urgency of their work. Many asylum-seekers are turned away at reticketing centers for flimsy reasons, leaving them vulnerable to homelessness.
Personal Stories of Struggle
The stories of asylum-seekers like Guillermo Alias Guille and Javier Oliveros illustrate the harsh realities they face. Guille, who fled Colombia due to violence, expressed his gratitude for having a roof over his head but lamented the lack of opportunities in the city.
"I’m grateful I have a roof over my head, and I’m not standing out in the rain or the cold, but to be honest there is nothing for me here," he said.
Oliveros, who came to the U.S. seeking stability, echoed similar sentiments, stating, "The reason why I came here is to earn enough income to have stability and a house of one’s own, but the situation is complicated."
The Fight for Stability
Many asylum-seekers are eager to work but face long waits for work permits. Guille, for instance, must wait months after applying for asylum before he can legally work. This uncertainty adds to the stress of their precarious living situations.
Others, like Javier Sivi from Ecuador, have resorted to selling candy on the streets to survive, highlighting the dire circumstances many find themselves in.
Conclusion
As the city continues to grapple with the influx of asylum-seekers and the limitations of its shelter system, the work of nonprofit volunteers like those at Artists, Athletes and Advocates becomes increasingly vital. Their efforts not only provide immediate assistance but also advocate for the rights and needs of those seeking refuge in a new land. Without continued support and systemic change, many asylum-seekers risk falling into homelessness, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to this growing crisis.
