Lawmakers Push $250M Boost For New York’s Harlem To Hollis Lifeline Housing Voucher Program

State Senator Brian Kavanagh, Chair of the Senate Committee on Housing, Construction and Community Development, Assemblymember Linda Rosenthal.

Chair of the Assembly Committee on Housing, state legislators, and advocates today called for $250 million to be included in the State budget for critical rental assistance through the Housing Access Voucher Program (HAVP), as the budget process got underway with Governor Kathy Hochul’s FY 2026-2027 Executive Budget proposal.

HAVP is a statewide rental assistance program designed to help New Yorkers who are homeless or facing imminent loss of their housing to secure and maintain stable homes. Modeled after the federal Section 8 program, HAVP guarantees that participating households pay no more than 30 percent of their income toward rent.

Last year’s FY 2025-2026 budget included enactment of HAVP and $50 million in funding for the first year of the program, with vouchers to be available beginning March 1, 2026. Advocates and legislators have consistently noted that significantly more funding will be required for the program to meet statewide needs. The Executive Budget proposal calls for $50 million in new funding for the program. The legislators’ and advocates’ call for $250 million for the program is consistent with the position taken by both the Senate and the Assembly in negotiations in each of the last several years.

New York continues to face record levels of housing instability, with shelters at capacity and rents remaining out of reach for thousands of New Yorkers. A $250 million investment in HAVP would allow the state to stabilize approximately 20,000 households, preventing evictions, reducing pressure on the shelter system, and helping families remain housed.

“I introduced the Housing Access Voucher Program in 2020, and each year since, as an essential tool to address the crises of unaffordable housing and homelessness all across New York,” said Senator Brian Kavanagh, Chair of the Senate Committee on Housing, Construction, and Community Development. “For too long, we have relied heavily on shelters and hotels, short-term subsidies, and federal programs with long waitlists, leaving too many households without a path to stability. The enactment of HAVP and inclusion of $50 million for the program in last year’s budget was a major victory, and I thank Governor Kathy Hochul, Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, Speaker Carl Heastie, and Assemblymember Rosenthal for their partnership in getting that done. While the Executive Budget proposes $50 million in funding for HAVP for the coming year, the amount does not match the scale of need–especially as we face threats of disinvestment in housing from the Trump administration and his Republican allies. As we enter budget negotiations, I am committed to continuing this fight to secure $250 million for HAVP as a big part of our efforts to ensure that every New Yorker has access to safe, stable, affordable housing.”

“After years of sponsoring the bill establishing the Housing Access Voucher Program, I was thrilled that the HAVP coalition’s work paid off and it was included in last year’s enacted state budget. Our efforts, however, to keep New Yorkers stably and affordably housed are far from over,” said Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal, Chair of the Assembly Committee on Housing. “The support of Speaker Heastie, Majority Leader Stewart-Cousins and Governor Hochul in last year’s budget was indispensable. The need for additional housing vouchers in New York State has been evident for years, but this problem is now being compounded by the Trump administration’s cruel actions gutting federal affordable housing programs and putting the housing vouchers for thousands of families at risk in our state. Last year’s investment of $50 million for the newly created pilot program was a great first step, but does not meet the urgent need to reduce homelessness and housing instability in our state. With a growing affordability crisis and a lack of federal support from the Trump administration and Republicans in Congress, we must double down on our efforts to fully fund HAVP at $250 million this year and lend a helping hand to those living in shelter, on the streets or on the verge of eviction.”

“The Housing Access Voucher Program fills one of the biggest gaps in our housing safety net by reaching New Yorkers who are most at risk of eviction or homelessness and who are currently locked out of federal and local assistance. With rents rising and evictions increasing statewide, a $250 million investment has never been more needed. Vouchers cost far less than shelter stays and give families a real chance at permanent stability. This program will ensure that no one is denied housing because of their immigration status, income level, or past involvement with the justice system,” said Senator April N.M. Baskin.

“As a state senator representing parts of Long Island and a longtime advocate for affordable housing solutions, I understand the challenges many New Yorkers face in making ends meet. The Housing Access Voucher Program, which I co-sponsored, would play a critical role in helping low-income residents achieve stability and remain in permanent housing. That is why we are calling for a $250 million investment in HAVP in this year’s State Budget—to meet growing demand and ensure housing stability for those who need it most,” said Senator Siela Bynoe.

“The Housing Access Voucher Program is a proven tool to help New Yorkers stay stably housed and prevent homelessness. The Governor’s proposed investment is a good step forward, but we also need to continue our efforts to get more apartments back online through necessary rehabs. A $250 million commitment in this year’s State Budget would help meet both goals and ensure families would have access to safe, affordable home” said Senator Leroy Comrie.

“HAVP is a rational program that implements a proven method of ensuring housing stability and permanent affordability. Implementing it right now will save billions of dollars in the long run and contribute immensely to our collective quality of life. We should baseline funding at $250 million per year until we reach scale,” said Harlem Senator Cordell Cleare.

“Having a roof over your head should never be conditional in New York. Across our state, families are just one crisis away from housing instability, and we must meet this moment with urgency and empathy. I stand with Senator Kavanagh in calling for sustained funding for the Housing Access Voucher Program,” said Senator Nathalia Fernandez.

“Rents are skyrocketing, and New Yorkers are being pushed out of their homes. The Housing Access Voucher Program is one of the most effective tools we have to keep people in stable housing, and it needs to be funded at the scale of the crisis we are in. A $250 million investment in HAVP is needed to ensure we don’t leave tens of thousands of New Yorkers behind. For years, our legislature has fought to fully fund this program because housing stability is not optional, it’s essential,” said Senator Kristen Gonzalez.

“For many low-income families, seniors and people with unique abilities, housing vouchers are the best way to avert poverty and homelessness. Here in New York, support for the Housing Access Voucher Program needs to be maintained in the State Budget, especially now as we grapple with an affordability crisis,” said Senator Pete Harckham.

“Across New York, especially in the Hudson Valley, too many families are spending nearly half of their income on rent, forcing many into housing insecurity and making housing vouchers one of the most powerful tools to keep families in their homes. I’ll be fighting this year to expand investment in the program, alongside solutions that protect access to stable and affordable housing for all New Yorkers,” said Senator Michelle Hinchey.

“Housing is not a privilege to be rationed—it is a public responsibility that defines who we are as a state. At a moment when families are being priced out, pushed out, and forced into impossible choices, New York must meet this crisis with resolve—not half-measures. The Housing Access Voucher Program is one of our most effective tools to prevent homelessness before it begins and keep families stably housed in the communities they call home. A $250 million investment in HAVP is not aspirational—it is essential. It’s the difference between displacement and dignity, between instability and security. If our budget reflects our values, it must reflect the urgent truth that housing stability is the foundation of economic justice, public health, and community strength. New York has the resources. What we need now is the political will to act,” said Senator Robert Jackson.

“Too many families across New York are struggling to find safe, quality housing they can afford. The Housing Access and Voucher Program would be a key tool for enabling families to afford housing, prevent homelessness, and allow our communities to thrive. We must act this year to secure enough funding in the state budget so we can support as many New Yorkers as possible, as housing and rental costs continue to rise. I look forward to working with the Senate Majority to ensure every New Yorker has the opportunity to find a place they can call home,” said Senator Rachel May.

“Housing provides stability and is often the foundation for growth. The Housing Access Voucher Program was created to give more New Yorkers the ability to secure safe housing, avoid homelessness, and maintain structure in their lives during this moment of unprecedented housing unaffordability. As costs continue to rise, expanding HAVP funding to $250 million is a necessary step to meet the need across our state and keep people off the streets,” said Senator Monica R. Martinez.

“Every line in this budget represents a choice, and right now the choice before us is whether we continue paying more for shelters and crisis response or invest in keeping people housed in the first place. A $50 million allocation for the Housing Access Voucher Program does not reflect the reality facing families, seniors, and working New Yorkers who are one rent hike away from losing their homes. Funding HAVP at $250 million is a fiscally responsible investment that saves taxpayer dollars while giving people the stability and dignity they deserve. New Yorkers facing housing insecurity cannot wait, and this budget must rise to meet that urgency,” said Senator Kevin Parker.

“As New Yorkers continue to face rising rents and an ongoing housing crisis, we must act with urgency. That is why I support calling for this investment in the State Budget for the Housing Access Voucher Program. HAVP will help stabilize families, prevent homelessness, and keep our communities whole. As we anticipate the Governor’s Executive Budget, it is essential that we prioritize meaningful investments that reflect the scale of our housing crisis and protect our most vulnerable residents,” said Senator Roxanne J. Persaud.

“New York cannot continue to address a housing crisis with half-measures. The Housing Access Voucher Program is one of the most effective tools we have to keep families stably housed, prevent homelessness, and reduce long-term public costs. Funding HAVP at $250 million is not just a moral imperative—it’s a practical solution that helps working families, seniors, survivors of domestic violence, and people with disabilities remain in their communities. As housing costs continue to soar, the State must meet the scale of this crisis with real investment and real commitment,” said Senator Jessica Ramos.

“Today, tens of thousands of New Yorkers—many of them children—are experiencing homelessness, and we must take action to help them. Including funding for the Housing Access Voucher Program in this year’s state budget is a critical step toward making stable, affordable housing a reality for more New Yorkers. By expanding rental assistance and helping families stay in their homes, we are investing in the dignity and opportunity of our communities,” said Senator Chris Ryan.

“We are in the midst of an affordability crisis, in which too many working families are being forced out of their homes because of sky-rocketing rent and a constantly increasing cost of living. The Housing Access Voucher Program can be a critical lifeline for vulnerable and low-income New Yorkers, but it must be properly funded. I fully support our State Budget allocating $250 million, and preferably more, toward HAVP,” said Senator Julia Salazar.

“I represent a district where young people are struggling to find affordable housing; seniors on fixed incomes, working families, and people with disabilities are doing everything right and still cannot keep up with rent. We need the Housing Access Voucher Program to close the gap between wages and housing costs. This budget must meet the scale of the crisis New Yorkers are living with now more than ever,” said Senator Toby Ann Stavisky.

“I join my colleagues in calling for $250 million in the State Budget to provide direct support to families and keep them in their homes. The Housing Access Voucher Program will expand access to housing vouchers for individuals and families who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. This investment is essential to ensuring stability, dignity, and opportunity for our most vulnerable neighbors, and I will continue fighting to make housing a human right for every New Yorker,” said Senator Lea Webb.

I believe New York has a moral responsibility to help those most in need remain in their homes. The Housing Access Voucher Program (HAVP) is a crucial component in helping to achieve this, and it must be fully funded in this year’s budget. My colleagues and I will work tirelessly to ensure that it is,” said Assemblymember Chris Burdick.

“I strongly support funding the Housing Access Voucher Program at $250 million in this year’s state budget. This critical funding will prevent homelessness among those who don’t qualify for other housing programs. With the Trump Administration shredding our social safety net it is all the more essential,” said Assemblymember Robert Carroll.

“New York’s housing crisis is pushing more families into homelessness and leaving countless others one missed paycheck away from losing stable housing. Even when we don’t agree on every approach, there is broad agreement that housing insecurity is unacceptable, and people across the spectrum are advancing real solutions to keep New Yorkers stably housed. With the Trump administration allowing the Emergency Housing Voucher program to expire at the end of this year, the stakes are even higher. We must fully fund the Housing Access Voucher Program at $250 million as a lifeline for New Yorkers fighting to stay in their homes. I want to thank Assemblymember Linda Rosenthal and Senator Brian Kavanagh for their relentless leadership since HAVP was first introduced in 2020. Their work helped turn years of advocacy into last year’s $50 million pilot. Now we must finish what they started and deliver the full funding New Yorkers need,” said Assemblymember Brian Cunningham.

“New York’s housing crisis has reached a breaking point. More than 95,000 people are homeless statewide, and nearly half of all renters are rent‑burdened, struggling each month to stay housed. Last year’s $50 million allocation for the Housing Access Voucher Program was a start, but with the federal Emergency Housing Voucher program ending this year, thousands of households are at risk of losing support,” said Assemblywoman Maritza Davila, Chair, Committee on Social Services.

“The Housing Access Voucher program is a critical lifeline for tenants. $50 million last year was a step in the right direction, but there is so much more the state can do to protect tenants and keep them stably housed. With the federal government cutting the Emergency Housing Voucher program, it is more important than ever to fully fund HAVP,” said Assemblymember Phara Forrest.

“The Housing Access Voucher Program is one of the most effective tools we have to ensure housing stability in the middle of a deepening affordability crisis. With federal emergency vouchers expiring and rents continuing to rise, the need has only grown more urgent. Fully funding HAVP will give people a real chance to remain in their communities and stay out of homelessness. I’m grateful for Assemblymember Rosenthal’s leadership on this issue and will continue to fully support this work,” said Assemblymember Andrew Hevesi, Chair, Committee on Children & Families.

“Housing insecurity has been a paramount issue in New York State for many years, and in 2026 it is more of a crisis. With the rising costs of groceries and utilities, there has never been a more critical time to ease housing costs for New Yorkers. Upstate families need additional support and are struggling just as much as anyone else. The Housing Access Voucher Program is crucial to closing this gap and ensuring that New Yorkers, both upstate and downstate, receive the support they need,” said Assemblymember Paula Kay.

“New York is in a full-blown housing and affordability crisis, and it is no longer confined to the poorest New Yorkers. Working families, seniors, people with disabilities, and working families doing everything right are being priced out of their communities and, far too often, pushed into homelessness. At the same time, the federal government is allowing the Emergency Housing Voucher program to expire, pulling the rug out from under thousands of families who are barely holding on. That makes it even more urgent that New York fully fund our own Housing Access Voucher Program. This program is not just about preventing homelessness, it is about keeping people stably housed, keeping children in their schools, keeping workers in their jobs, and keeping our local economies functioning. Housing stability is economic stability, and fully funding this program is one of the most practical, humane, and cost-effective steps we can take to address this crisis,” said Assemblymember Anna R. Kelles.

“At a time when housing costs are skyrocketing and the federal government is doing nothing to come to the aid of New Yorkers, we have an opportunity to provide much-needed relief by investing in the Housing Access Voucher Program. I am grateful to Assemblymember Linda Rosenthal and Senator Brian Kavanagh for their leadership, and will proudly join them in the fight to fully fund HAVP in this year’s budget,” said Assemblymember Micah Lasher.

“Between all of the cuts in last year’s big ugly bill and economic policies that are leaving working class households in the dust, federal Republicans have all but assured that the need for housing vouchers will go up. Here in New York, we must protect our residents by fully funding the Housing Access Voucher Program at $250 million. The freezing weather we’re experiencing right now is a poignant reminder of the necessity of housing. Let’s bring all New Yorkers in from the cold with this budget.” said Assemblymember Dana Levenberg.

“As uncertainty around federal funding grows, we must act now to put real safeguards in place to protect our constituents,” “I strongly support Assemblymember Rosenthal and Senator Kavanagh’s request to fund the Housing Voucher Access Program at $250 million. With 77 percent of residents in the 60th Assembly District renting their homes, I urge Governor Hochul to meet this moment and stand firmly with tenants who depend on stable, affordable housing,” said Assemblywoman Nikki Lucas.

“New York’s housing crisis demands real investment, not half measures. As a co-sponsor of the Housing Access Voucher Program, I’m urging the Governor to fully fund HAVP at $250 million so families aren’t pushed into shelters or onto the streets—especially as federal Emergency Housing Vouchers expire. At a moment of growing rents and deep uncertainty, New York must step up and ensure that all working-class New Yorkers can stay safely housed,” said Assemblymember Marcela Mitaynes.

“From Jackson Heights to Maspeth, working families and seniors in Queens are being squeezed by rising rents and housing instability that threaten the quality of life in our neighborhoods. The Housing Access Voucher Program is a practical, proven tool that helps people stay housed, stabilizes families, and prevents homelessness before it happens. Last year, we took an important step by funding HAVP at $50 million, demonstrating both its effectiveness and the urgent need to expand it. Fully funding this program at $250 million is not just the right thing to do—it’s a common-sense investment in safer communities, healthier neighborhoods, and long-term savings for New York State. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the Legislature and our partners across government to ensure this critical program is fully funded and reaches the New Yorkers who need it most,” said Assemblymember Steven Raga.

“With the federal Emergency Housing Voucher program set to expire at the end of 2026, it is critical that New York State fills the gap for our most vulnerable families and individuals. The Housing Access Voucher Program helps New Yorkers remain in their homes and on the path to stability and self-sufficiency. It is a commitment to our shared future, and an investment that stands to reduce the high costs of shelters and other services associated with homelessness. I join my colleagues in calling for its full funding in the 2026-2027 State Budget,” said Assemblymember MaryJane Shimsky.

“In my district in Ulster County, the number of unhoused people has increased by 51%, and families, even those with young children, have had to live in unsafe conditions or in motels for two years or more, in places that tend to be far from basic needs like public transit, groceries, and schools. To curb homelessness immediately, and to save money in the process, we need to be able to move people from emergency shelters to stable homes, and help those facing an imminent risk of homelessness to remain housed. This year, we need to fully fund the Housing Access Voucher Program at $250 million,” said Assemblymember Sarahana Shrestha.

“The Housing Access Voucher Program was created because New York families are getting priced out of stable housing. Funding it at $50 million was a start, but it does not come close to meeting the need. With federal emergency housing vouchers expiring and homelessness on the rise, this is the moment for the state to step up. Fully funding HAVP at $250 million will help people stay housed, reduce pressure on shelters, and provide homes to hundreds of families across NY. Our families need this year’s budget to include full funding for this program,” said Assemblymember Yudelka Tapia.

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“As Governor Hochul prepares to present her 2026–27 budget proposal, it is imperative that she fully funds the Housing Access Voucher Program. We are at a critical juncture in New York’s fight against the housing crisis, and families are bearing the brunt of this urgent need,” “With affordable housing increasingly threatened by policies from the Trump Administration, we cannot afford to let our most vulnerable neighbors—those struggling with housing insecurity—face another year without support. Now is the time to act decisively and ensure that every New Yorker has a safe and affordable place to call home,” said Assemblymember John Zaccaro, Jr.

“As Trump slashes funding for affordable housing, it is more important than ever that New York State step up to keep people in our homes. We stand with Senator Brian Kavanagh and Assemblymember Linda Rosenthal in calling for fully funding the Housing Access Voucher Program (HAVP), which would help New Yorkers afford our rent and house our homeless neighbors,” said Sumathy Kumar, Executive Director of Housing Justice for All.

“We’re proud to stand with Senator Brian Kavanagh and Assemblymember Linda Rosenthal to call for a $250 million investment in the Housing Access Voucher Program,” said Ellen Davidson, Staff Attorney with the Civil Law Reform Unit at The Legal Aid Society. “HAVP is a critical tool to help New Yorkers afford stable housing, avoid homelessness, and move into safe homes in their communities. At a time when soaring rents and deepening inequality are forcing families to the brink, New York must rise to meet this moment. Investing in HAVP is an investment in economic justice to reach more New Yorkers statewide.”

“In the face of historic homelessness and persistently high eviction rates, New York needs a greater investment in the Housing Access Voucher Program,” said David R. Jones, President and CEO of the Community Service Society of New York. “Last year’s appropriation was an important step forward, but it is barely plugging the gaps caused by the President’s reckless cuts. Our survey data shows that around the state, New Yorkers agree: this year’s budget must expand HAVP and make it a permanent program.”

“Housing vouchers are one of the most effective tools we have at our disposal for moving families from shelter to permanent housing. Win applauds Governor Hochul for recognizing their value, supporting the creation of HAVP, and committing $50 million in funding for the program for fiscal year 2027,” said Christine C. Quinn, President & CEO of Win. “The harsh reality is that New York is facing unprecedented attacks from the federal administration, all while continuing to confront a persistent homelessness crisis. These conditions demand bold action and greater investment in proven solutions to protect New York’s most vulnerable families — and we are grateful to Senator Kavanagh and Assemblymember Rosenthal for championing this legislation. We continue to urge Governor Hochul to fully fund HAVP with the allocation of $250 million for fiscal year 2027. With partnership and strategic investment, we can ensure that no family is made collateral damage by the Trump administration’s reckless and retributive policies.”

“The Housing Access Voucher Program will allow people who are really struggling to secure stable housing and right now the funding just doesn’t reach far enough to meet the need across the state,” said Gaye Corselli, Leader with VOCAL-NY’s Positive Leaders and Homelessness Union. “There is a real scarcity of housing right now that demands serious investments, which is why we’re united in calling for an increase to $250 million in funding for this program. There’s so many issues that people in our communities face that are multiplied by housing insecurity. It’s people’s health and safety we’re talking about… and the long term security of their families and children.”

“The Housing Access Voucher Program (HAVP) is a necessary investment for working class New Yorkers struggling with such high rent hikes and increasing costs of living. Investing in HAVP is an investment in families staying in their homes and being able to prosper in New York. That is why we stand in support with Senator Brian Kavanagh and Assemblymember Linda Rosenthal to call for a $250 million investment in HAVP. We need to safeguard as many families as possible from becoming homeless,” said Denise Rebeil, Housing and Environmental Justice Lead Organizer, Make the Road NY.

“The creation of the Housing Access Voucher Program last year was an important step toward addressing New York’s dire housing affordability crisis. Unfortunately, actions by the Trump administration over the past year are pushing more and more households to the verge of homelessness. Governor Hochul has an opportunity to step in to help the lowest-income New Yorkers avoid homelessness by increasing the funding for HAVP to $250 million. With an estimated 350,000 people in shelters, doubled- or tripled-up in apartments, or sleeping on the streets in New York City alone, we look to Governor Hochul to take this bold and effective action,” said Dave Giffen, Executive Director of the Coalition for the Homeless.

“Proven resources like HAVP are more critical than ever in combatting the record rates of homelessness and housing instability we’re seeing across New York,” said Baaba Halm, Senior Vice President of Programs at Enterprise Community Partners. “We are grateful to Senator Kavanagh and Assemblymember Rosenthal for continuing to prioritize this crisis, and we urge all sides to work together to offer this lifeline program and ensure that thousands of New Yorkers receive the vital assistance they need.”

“At a time when New Yorkers across the state are facing record-high rents and a deepening housing crisis, the Housing Access Voucher Program is one of the most effective tools we have to keep people stably housed and prevent homelessness,” said Rachel Fee, Executive Director of the New York Housing Conference. “We join Senator Kavanagh and Assemblymember Rosenthal in calling for $250 million for HAVP in this year’s budget.”

“As New York continues to face an unprecedented housing affordability crisis, NYSAFAH supports funding in the State Budget for the Housing Access Voucher Program (HAVP) for rental assistance,” said Carlina Rivera, President and CEO of NYSAFAH. “HAVP is a critical tool to help stabilize families and individuals experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity, while also strengthening the effectiveness of our broader investments in affordable housing. At a time when the State must balance many urgent priorities, ensuring that New Yorkers can access and keep safe, stable homes is essential.”

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“Too many New Yorkers are struggling to keep a roof over their heads, leaving families in precarious or unsafe situations. Access to safe, stable housing is the foundation for building a meaningful and productive life. The Housing Access Voucher Program represents a critical promise by the State to address housing insecurity and longstanding housing injustice,” said Murad Awawdeh President and CEO, New York Immigration Coalition. “HAVP is a step in the right direction, but addressing the scale of New York’s affordability crisis requires increased and permanent funding. We are calling on Albany to invest $250 million for HAVP in this year’s budget so that the program can fulfill its promise and provide New Yorkers with the stability they need to thrive in our state.”

“New York faces a housing crisis,” said Aqua Y. Porter, Executive Director of the Rochester-Monroe Anti-Poverty Initiative. “More than 158,000 of our fellow New Yorkers are homeless—the third-highest rate in the nation. These are families, children, and neighbors. We hear again and again from community members, especially those impacted by poverty, just how much they struggle with housing. Too many are facing eviction or are just one financial hardship away from homelessness.“Expanding HAVP would be a game-changer. A statewide, Section 8–style voucher would help thousands of New Yorkers stay in their homes and move out of homelessness. And unlike other programs, HAVP is truly inclusive because it does not discriminate based on immigration status or criminal record. It’s a program proven to keep people housed, keep families stable, and keep our communities strong.”

“The money allocated for HAVP in last year’s budget is not enough to meet the need. In NYC alone, the number of vouchers allocated is not enough to cover the nearly 2,200 households losing their federally funded Emergency Housing Vouchers. Multiple upstate counties will be left in a position to help less than 0.01% of their residents with a Housing Access Voucher. As the cost of living continues to rise, and federal cuts to the social safety net leave New Yorkers in an increasingly precarious situation, Governor Hochul must take action to prevent more people falling into homelessness. She needs to fund the Housing Access Voucher Program with the full $250 million in this year’s budget,” said Amy Blumsack, Director of Organizing and Policy for Neighbors Together.

“Following the release of the Executive Budget, we urge deeper investments in the Housing Access Voucher Program. As New York cuts down barriers to building affordable housing, people experiencing and at-risk of homelessness must be able to access and sustain these units. Building homes alone is not enough without ensuring those who need them the most can afford them. Meaningful investments in the HAVP program are necessary so that people can successfully move off the streets and out of shelters for good and avoid homelessness whenever possible,” said Catherine Trapani, Assistant Vice President of Public Policy at Volunteers of America-Greater New York.

“In the midst of an affordability crisis, lack of available affordable housing stock, and federal benefits being taken away from New Yorkers, the Housing Access Voucher Program (HAVP) is the best way to keep more New Yorkers from entering homelessness. HAVP has the potential to help more than 30,000 reach or maintain housing stability. We made great strides in the FY26 budget with an initial commitment of $50 million, but we must fight for a full $250 million in the FY27 budget,” said Kristin Miller, Executive Director of Homeless Services United.

“As people of faith committed to the dignity of every person, Catholic Charities New York calls on the Governor to include the full $250 million investment in the Housing Access Voucher Program in the upcoming Executive Budget. Safe, stable housing is foundational to family life and human flourishing, and HAVP offers a compassionate, effective pathway out of homelessness for our most vulnerable neighbors. We join Senator Kavanagh and Assemblymember Rosenthal in urging this critical commitment, and we pray that our state’s budget reflects both fiscal responsibility and moral leadership at this pivotal moment,” said Antonio Fernandez, CEO of Catholic Charities New York.

“We look forward to the effective implementation of HAVP, which will provide much needed housing assistance for households at risk of eviction to move into stable housing. We urge Governor Hochul and the Legislature’s leadership to allocate $250 million in FY 2026/27, and to make the program permanent. Stable and affordable housing gives families with children a path to economic mobility and overall well-being,” said Juan Diaz, Policy Manager, Children’s Defense Fund – New York.

“New York State must include $250 million for the Housing Access Voucher Program (HAVP) in the state budget to address the urgent housing needs of young people experiencing homelessness. HAVP is a vital resource for youth who lost all federal voucher options after runaway and homeless youth were excluded from HUD housing voucher programs last year, leaving many with no pathway to permanent housing. The impact has fallen hardest on LGBTQ+ youth and migrant youth, who are disproportionately represented among unhoused young people and face heightened risks of violence, exploitation, and instability. At a time of rising rents and an overwhelmed shelter system, expanding HAVP to $250 million is critical to ensure more vouchers are available, more youth can access safe housing, and New York can step in where the federal government has failed,” said Galloway, Advocacy Manager at the Ali Forney Center.

“Renters and those experiencing homelessness have been crying out to lawmakers about the housing affordability crisis for years, and the time to act was yesterday. Not only is rent continuing to increase, but recent attempts on the federal level to cut funding for vital housing programs and initiatives are projected to worsen an already precarious situation. For immigrant communities, access to housing assistance is further limited due to unjust barriers such as status requirements,” said Sosseh Prom, Esq., Housing Justice Director of African Communities Together (ACT). “Housing is a human right, and should never be tied to superficial qualifications that penalize vulnerable communities, or be reserved for a select few. HAVP is a common-sense solution that gives New Yorkers the immediate lifeline they need, and we must continue to invest in it. While the initial allocation of $50 million is a welcome start, we need $250 million to ensure the program’s success because all New Yorkers deserve access to a dignified living, and it’s time we put our money where our mouth is.”

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“CNY Fair Housing serves rural areas, small towns, growing suburbs, and central cities, and all of these places have struggled with rising housing costs over the last several years. In community after community, we hear the same thing: rising housing costs are driving housing instability and homelessness and perpetuating economic and racial segregation. HAVP would allow more families to afford a place to live, and that’s critical in communities like Central New York, where half of all tenants are rent burdened,” said Sally Santangelo, Executive Director of CNY Fair Housing.

“Last year, New York took an important step forward when the state, with leadership from Senator Kavanagh and others, approved the first ever Housing Access Voucher Program. That commitment showed what’s possible when we commit to giving New Yorkers in shelter a path to permanent housing. Now, with the need more urgent than ever, including $250 million for HAVP in this year’s budget will help us build on that achievement. Voucher programs work, especially when paired with the landlord engagement and tenant support that Anthos|Home provides. This new investment will move more people into permanent, affordable housing. Together we can make homelessness in New York brief and rare,” said Laura Lazarus, Co-Founder and CEO of Anthos|Home.

“At a time when the federal government is disinvesting from proven solutions to homelessness like rapid rehousing and supportive housing, New York’s domestic violence survivors need resources at their disposal that can help them quickly escape from their abusers and secure safe housing. HAVP is a powerful tool that can help end homelessness among survivors and their families, and $250M for the program must be included in this year’s budget if we’re serious about moving survivors from shelter to stable homes,” said Nicole Branca, CEO of New Destiny Housing. “We want to thank Senator Kavanagh and Assemblymember Rosenthal for their tireless support of programs that help house survivors, and we call on Governor Hochul and the rest of the legislature to fully fund HAVP as they finalize the state’s budget.”

“The Housing Assistance Voucher Program (HAVP) provides critical funding, similar to proven programs like Section 8, but designed to close gaps and expand assistance beyond what federal resources currently provide. By offering assistance that helps people secure permanent housing, we can create a pathway to help New Yorkers in need pay their rent and prevent homelessness. said Rafael E. Cestero, CEO, the Community Preservation Corporation. “At a time when a record number of New Yorkers are struggling to make ends meet, it’s important that we fund safety net programs to help as many families as possible. My thanks to Senator Kavanagh and Assemblymember Rosenthal for their support and commitment to addressing our housing and affordability challenges.”

“Given the effect that major changes in federal policy will have on working families across the state, especially those who already struggle with the high cost of housing, this ought to be the year to double down on win-win policies like the Housing Access Voucher Program. This is a targeted intervention to shore up at-risk tenants who are suffering financial hardship and who are at imminent risk of financial instability, including those who have already received an eviction notice. New Yorkers need the full $250 million investment to hold onto the security of their homes while dealing with so much financial instability,” said Tim Foley, CEO of The Building & Realty Institute of the Hudson Valley.

“New York renters need more help to make ends meet and we can get there with fully funded vouchers. We urge the state to commit funds to the Housing Access Voucher Program to both help struggling renters, and the buildings they call home. Housing has a cost and this is a good investment in keeping New Yorkers housed,” said Kenny Burgos, CEO of the New York Apartment Association. “Stabilized apartments have a median rent of $1618, but thousands of families that live in these apartments still need a little bit of help. HAVP could be the boost that allows them to make ends meet and helps property owners keep the lights on each month.”

“Vouchers help tenants who are having trouble paying their rent and, equally important, vouchers provide the revenue — the cash flow — that every small building owner desperately needs to operate and maintain the affordable housing they provide to New Yorkers. With small owners experiencing unprecedented increases in operating costs – across the board, from property taxes and insurance, to labor and utilities — they need every dollar from every apartment to make their buildings work. And these vouchers would greatly help them do that,” said Ann Korchak, Board President of the Small Property Owners of New York (SPONY).

Photo credit: 1) Wiki. 2) Rep.Cordell Cleare. 3) Harlem home. 4) Homeless person, Wiki.