A new homeless shelter in East New York will open on March 30, serving as an intake and assessment center for women entering the shelter system with a focus on trauma-informed support.
HELP USA, Camber Property Group and the New York City Department of Social Services on Tuesday marked the opening of HELP Women’s Center at 114 Snediker Ave., a new five-story, 60,000-square-foot, 200-bed facility.
The center was designed to support person-centered intake, assessment and care, creating an environment that prioritizes safety, privacy, accessibility and stability, officials said. The center brings together intake, services, and daily supports in one location, helping streamline access to care and housing pathways. On-site medical and clinical services will be provided, alongside access to media and computer rooms, support for employment and housing searches, and wellness and healthy living programs.
“The first point of interaction with our system should be welcoming and supportive," Department of Social Services Commissioner Erin Dalton said in a statement. "That is what New Yorkers will experience when they walk through the doors of HELP Women’s Center. This facility is what the future of shelter intake should look like as we phase out facilities that are outdated and make vital investments in new models."
The building incorporates abundant natural light and resident accommodations include a mix of room types tailored to different needs, including single rooms for women with mobility or medical needs and shared rooms that allow flexibility while maintaining privacy and personal space.
Additional features support daily routine, including a communal dining room and full-service commercial kitchen, a resident laundry room, a comfort room designed for low-stimulation self-regulation, and outdoor and rooftop gardens.
Dan Lehman, president and chief executive officer of HELP USA, said the center reflects a trauma-informed approach to care.
"This is a critical entry point for women into the New York City shelter system. From the moment a woman walks through these doors, everything about the building design and the service model is centered on stabilization, respect and the transition back to sustainable, permanent housing," he said. "Having this type of environment will ultimately help shorten stays in shelter and ensure people are able to remain housed."
