Resources for Asylum Seekers

The city launched a first-of-its-kind Asylum Seeker Navigation Center operated by Catholic Charities of New York, with 12 additional satellite sites run by Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) across the five boroughs. As of May 9, 2024, this system has served more than 195,700 asylum seekers (since the spring of 2022). The Navigation Center system serves as a central location and referral network for asylum seekers to receive free and confidential assistance in navigating necessary services, including health care, Medicaid enrollment, vaccinations, school enrollment, immigration legal orientation, and IDNYC enrollment.

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Health Care

All immigrants and asylum seekers can get medical care in New York City, regardless of immigration status or ability to pay. You can get low-cost medical care, with or without insurance, through NYC Health + Hospitals (H+H). H+H can provide emergency care, basic health care, check-ups, immunizations, and more for people of all ages. For all NYC Health + Hospitals, please call (718) 387-6407 to be directed to the center nearest to you.

Food

Find locations that offer free food (food pantries and soup kitchens) by visiting Food Help NYC.

IDNYC

IDNYC is a card for all New Yorkers, from all backgrounds, and from all five boroughs. Your immigration status does not matter. The free, municipal identification card for New York City residents, ages 10 and up, provides access to a wide variety of services and programs offered by the City. IDNYC cardholders enjoy benefits and discounts offered by businesses and cultural institutions across the five boroughs. Learn more about how to obtain identification from IDNYC.

K-12 Education

In NYC, your child has a right to K-12 education, regardless of immigration status. Family Welcome Centers serve NYC families all year round with enrollment and admissions. For support, please visit one of the back-to-school sites below, Monday through Thursday, 8am – 5pm, and on Friday, 8am - 3pm. For more information visit the enrollment page on the NYC Schools website.

Families with Disabilities

The Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities (MOPD) offers several resources for people with disabilities who are in New York City. You can access these services and more by visiting MOPD’s website

DYCD Adult Literacy Program

The city’s Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) offers adult literacy programs and English classes for youth and adults. For more information visit: https://www.nyc.gov/site/dycd/services/reading-writing.page

Additional Support

The Mayor’s Office to End Domestic Violence and Gender-Based Violence is here to support you or someone you know experiencing domestic or gender-based violence. Help is available:

Call 311 to be connected to the nearest NYC Family Justice Center (Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm) Find resources and support in NYC by searching the City's NYC HOPE Resource Directory. Call the City's 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-621-HOPE (4673) for immediate safety planning, shelter assistance, and other resources. TTY: 800-810-7444 In an emergency, dial 911. For additional information visit: https://www.nyc.gov/site/ocdv/programs/family-justice-centers.page