Immigration & Homelessness

We talk with Zeandra who is one of our follow up care coordinators. Once we make contact with a guest that needs assistance, she will give them our best options on how to proceed and help clear the red tape so that they can get connected to the best resources available, as easily as possible.  

She has also been our point person in assisting the many immigrants who have been coming to the New York City area and our outreaches.

How did you get into this field of work?

In 2018, I became more aware of the homeless population in my walks around NYC and found myself wondering what was being done to help them overcome homelessness. I wanted to learn more on how to make a difference for the homeless community and found an opportunity to volunteer at City Relief, which led to my passion to help the community to grow.  

What is your typical day like at City Relief?

My work day is filled with helping others navigate the social services system in New York City. This can be anything from assistance with seeking shelter, accessing public benefits or even advocating for them to receive adequate support. 

What do you see on the front lines of homelessness when immigration is concerned?

I see injustice, suffering and inhumane treatment! It's disappointing. There is a large difference in how undocumented migrants are treated compared to those who are citizens within the homeless services system. They do not receive the same treatment  as those who are citizens and are marginalized further because of their status. I've seen women in family shelters request items for the children and were denied. I've seen men being pushed to be last to receive food and assistance. 

Do you have a recent story about someone we helped in this regard?

Recently we've helped a group of women with pampers and wipes for their babies because their shelter had been denying them both. They'd witness staff at the shelter giving them freely to other families who were not part of the recent migrations. To be denied access to the most essential items for a baby is inhumane and flat-out wrong. 

How are people’s donations & giving directly impacting this work?

Donations have played a key role in our ability to help those facing homelessness. It has brought relief. We have been able to provide food, phones, personal hygiene items, diapers and children's clothing and so much more. They seem like small things but when you're in crisis these little things become the most valuable. 

We are grateful for Zeandra and her perspective on this truly important work.