Establishment of a home sharing program for homeless individuals and reporting in relation thereto.

A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to the establishment of a home sharing program for homeless individuals and reporting in relation thereto

This bill would require the Commissioner of Social Services to establish a program in which home owners or apartment leaseholders with a spare private bedroom in their home share their living accommodations with homeless individuals in exchange for rent, companionship and/or assistance with household chores. In establishing the program, the Commissioner, in consultation with relevant agencies, would develop and administer eligibility criteria; develop and implement the application, selection, matching, and move-in processes; conduct outreach; and provide services such as home visits, conflict resolution and social services assistance. The bill would also require the Commissioner to report annually on the program to the Mayor, Speaker of the Council and Public Advocate.