The Community Service Society of New York
07/01/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 07/01/2024 08:36
Press Release: CSS Statement on FY 2025 City Budget
July 1st, 2024
Press Release
CSS Statement on FY 2025 City Budget
Contact: Jeff Maclin
(212) 614-5538 (office)
(718) 309-2346 (cell)
[email protected]
The Community Service Society of New York (CSS) applauds Mayor Adams, Speaker Adams, and the City Council for passing a budget that delivers important wins for low-income and working-class New Yorkers who continue to fall behind financially because of the ever-rising cost of living and the historic affordability crisis in our housing market.
To help low-income New Yorkers struggling with transit affordability, the city budget adds more than $20 million to the Fair Fares program, increasing the program's eligibility from 120 percent to 145 percent of the Federal Poverty Line (FPL). As a result, nearly 200,000 additional adult New Yorkers will be eligible to receive a discounted metro card. This expansion is great news for New Yorkers who remain unable to access our city's mass transit as the gateway to economic opportunity because they simply cannot afford the fare.
There is also good news in this budget for the millions who struggle paying their rent or finding affordable housing. The budget adds $2 billion in capital funding to the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) and New York City Housing Authority's (NYCHA) capital budget to support the addition of new homes over the next decade. This sum includes funding for two key HPD programs that could support social housing development and conversions: Open Door and Neighborhood Pillars.
Finally, we would like to thank Speaker Adams and the City Council for including in the budget funding for CSS's initiatives, which include critical health and insurance navigation, re-entry services for New Yorkers with criminal justice histories, and a signature program that connects adults aged 55+ with meaningful volunteer opportunities. These initiatives are crucial for the well-being and support of the diverse communities CSS serves.
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The Community Service Society of New York (CSS) has worked with and for New Yorkers since 1843 to promote economic opportunity and champion an equitable city and state. We power change through a strategic combination of research, services, and advocacy to make New York more livable for people facing economic insecurity. By expanding access to health care, affordable housing, employment opportunities, debt assistance, and more, we make a tangible difference in the lives of millions. Join us at www.cssny.org.