Requiring that the Dept of Homeless Services recognize time spent in foster care as homelessness for the purpose of meeting rental voucher eligibility requirements.

A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to requiring that the department of homeless services recognize time spent in foster care as homelessness for the purpose of meeting rental voucher eligibility requirements

Some youths who have spent time in foster care have difficulty obtaining stable housing; many youths end up “couchsurfing,” in homeless shelters, or in the corrections system. Additionally, according to a report from a local advocacy organization, homeless mothers are more likely to have spent time in foster care. This bill would allow youths who have spent time in foster care to be eligible for rental assistance vouchers that would allow them to obtain stable housing. Eligibility would be limited to those 24 years old or younger.