Urban Pathways to Convene Leaders on Expanding Safe Havens for Street Homelessness

Urban Pathways, a New York City nonprofit, is convening state and local leaders for a legislative breakfast on October 15, 2026, at the Metropolitan College of New York. The event aims to discuss the impact and future of Safe Havens, which provide low-barrier transitional housing for individuals experiencing homelessness.

The organization will also release its latest policy brief, "Beyond Shelter: Why New York Must Expand Safe Havens to End Chronic Street Homelessness." This document examines the role of Safe Havens in addressing chronic street homelessness and advocates for expanding access to these programs.

Gary P. Jenkins, CEO of Urban Pathways, stated that the Safe Haven model has been crucial in moving New Yorkers from homelessness to permanent housing. He emphasized that person-centered, supportive services are key to providing a bridge from the street to stability. The event seeks to foster collaboration and advance solutions to homelessness in the city.

The breakfast, sponsored by Promise Hospitality Group, will include a panel discussion with officials such as Assemblymember Nikki Lucas, Senator Erik Bottcher, Dr. Mitchell Katz (NYC Health + Hospitals CEO), and Deputy Commissioner Cassandra White-Hemphill (NYC Department of Homeless Services). Jose Cotto, Chief Program Officer at Urban Pathways, will moderate the discussion.