Urban Pathways Hosts Legislative Breakfast on Expanding Safe Havens
News related to:Urban Pathways · 2 min read
NEW YORK, Oct. 12, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- Urban Pathways, a New York City nonprofit organization with a 50-year history of combating homelessness, is set to host a Legislative Breakfast on October 15, 2026, at The Metropolitan College of New York's Bronx Campus. The event aims to highlight the impact and future of Safe Havens in addressing chronic street homelessness in New York City.
The brief examines the role of Safe Havens in providing critical support to individuals experiencing chronic or unsheltered homelessness, particularly those with serious mental illness, substance use disorders, or other complex health and social needs.
The event will feature a panel discussion with key state and local leaders, including Assemblymember Nikki Lucas, State Senator Erik Bottcher, Dr. Mitchell Katz, Deputy Commissioner Cassandra White-Hemphill, and Darlene Jackson, a former Safe Haven resident. The discussion will be moderated by Jose Cotto, Chief Program Officer of Urban Pathways.
Assemblymember Nikki Lucas, representing the 60th Assembly District, emphasized the importance of investing in supportive services and housing opportunities that meet the needs of New Yorkers experiencing homelessness.
State Senator Luis R. Sepúlveda, representing the 32nd Senate District, highlighted the importance of collaboration in addressing homelessness.
Dr. Mitchell Katz, President and CEO of NYC Health + Hospitals, the largest municipal healthcare system in the U.S., underscored the critical role that Safe Havens play in providing vital support services.
Urban Pathways currently operates four Safe Havens across New York City, serving more than 550 individuals each year. The organization's Safe Haven model offers a more flexible and supportive environment, helping residents build trusting relationships with staff, access health and behavioral health services, and connect with resources that support greater stability and permanent housing.
Kandra Clark, Director of Policy & Advocacy at Urban Pathways, noted that capacity alone does not create engagement.
The Legislative Breakfast will provide an opportunity for elected officials, agency leaders, service providers, and community partners to exchange perspectives on Safe Havens, explore opportunities to strengthen the model, and advance strategies to help more New Yorkers transition from street homelessness to permanent housing.