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Homelessness Prevention

The Homelessness Prevention Administration (HPA) works tirelessly to keep New Yorkers in their homes. HPA works with the Department of Homeless Services (DHS), the NYC Housing Authority (NYCHA) and many other organizations and City agencies to prevent homelessness and assist families and individuals in need in maintaining stable, affordable housing in their communities.

Within the Homelessness Prevention Administration are the Housing and Homeless Services/Initiatives Division, the Rental Assistance Program, the Office of Civil Justice, and the Early Intervention Outreach Team, all of which are vital partners in assisting New Yorkers in need.

For more information on HPA, please call the DSS OneNumber at 718-557-1399.

Here are some situations that may make you eligible for cash assistance.

Free Legal Services to Prevent Eviction

HRA’s Office of Civil Justice (OCJ) provides free legal representation, advice and other legal assistance to New York City tenants facing eviction, harassment, disrepair and other housing-related issues.

OCJ is implementing New York City’s groundbreaking right-to-counsel law, making it the first and largest city in the country to ensure that tenants facing eviction cases have access to free legal assistance. Through partnerships with contracted nonprofit legal services organizations, OCJ provides access to free legal help for tenants facing eviction in New York City Housing Court and NYCHA administrative proceedings.

In addition to providing free eviction defense legal services, OCJ’s programs provide access to free legal assistance for tenants in a range of housing-related cases. These programs provide access to legal representation and advice to New York City tenants in individual and group collective litigation to help maintain and preserve their housing and protect against harassment, disrepair or other misconduct by unscrupulous landlords. OCJ’s legal services are free and available regardless of immigration status.

Find out more about OCJ and legal services for tenants.

Homebase

Homebase will help you develop a personalized plan to overcome an immediate housing crisis and achieve housing stability. You may be eligible for Homebase services if you:

  • Are at imminent risk of entering the New York City shelter system
  • Are low-income
  • Want to remain stably housed in your community

Learn more about Homebase

Read Frequently Asked Questions

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