• The president reaffirmed once again his commitment to support the more than 13,000 newcomers and those who are yet to arrive

Since the governors of Texas and Arizona began sending buses full of immigrants who crossed the border to the Big Apple in recent months, the mayor, Eric Adams, has repeated ad nauseam that New York will not leave them alone. And in tune with that feeling, the president has just announced the opening of several help centers for those who are seeking asylum.

The mayor revealed this Thursday that the City will open the so-called Humanitarian Emergency Assistance and Response Centers, which seek to support hundreds of asylum seekers who arrive in New York, a number that is greater every day.

One of the purposes of the help centers is to provide assistance to new arrivals and ensure that they remain connected to available services and supports, such as shelter, food, medical care, and legal advice.

“Over 100 years ago, Ellis Island opened its doors to welcome those who ‘longed to breathe free. Now, more than ever, it is clear that we are once again dealing with a humanitarian crisis created by human hands,” said Mayor Adams. “While other leaders have abdicated their moral duty to support arriving asylum seekers, New York City refuses to do so. This is not an everyday homeless crisis, but a humanitarian crisis that requires a different approach.”

The New York leader took advantage of the announcement to continue requesting help from federal and state authorities to work together in this effort.

“Like the generations that came to our city before, New York will provide the thousands who now come to our city with the foundation to build a better life,” Adams said.

Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Philip Banks mentioned that when immigrants arrive in the Big Apple, through these centers, the needs of asylum seekers can be assessed and addressed as soon as they arrive.

“Relief centers will be a crucial piece of our overall response to help these asylum seekers get the assistance they need,” the official said.

Mitchell Katz, president and CEO of NYC Health + Hospitals (H+H), assured that the City is also ready to offer everything related to health matters to newcomers.

“The Mayor has made it clear that New York City cares for its own, and NYC Health + Hospitals is proud to step up, respond to this humanitarian crisis and help those in need,” said the doctor. “Once again, we will show cities across this country the value of a municipal health care system and our commitment to the health of all of our patients, regardless of immigration status.”

For more information on the location of these sites, you can call 311.

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