Background

A new supportive housing site is being planned for Midtown in the former Stewart Hotel Shelter (371 7th Avenue). It will feature 570 units, half of which will be affordable housing, and the other half will be for supportive housing. Supportive housing is a type of permanent affordable housing that offers support services to the people living there. It helps people experiencing homelessness obtain and keep housing, strengthens neighborhoods, and saves money for the city. On Wednesday, November 19th at 6:00 PM, Manhattan Community Board 5 is meeting to hear the proposal for the project, and will vote whether or not to approve it. If you live in Midtown in Manhattan Community Board 5’s area (check if you do here), we could use your voice in favor of the project!

Take Action

• The #1 need is for folks to provide comments virtually (on Zoom or phone) during the meeting (Tuesday 11/19; meeting begins at 6:00 PM) or in person at the meeting at 450 7th Avenue (Tuesday 11/19; meeting begins at 6:00 PM)

• If you aren’t able to join the meeting virtually or in person, you can submit written comments (this can be done any time between now and the meeting on Wednesday 11/19)

Haven’t spoken at a Community Board meeting before? No worries—the board hears from members of the public all the time at hearings like these, and Open Hearts will be there with you every step of the way. We’ll provide suggested talking points, connect you with other folks who will be speaking up, and help you navigate the logistics.

Use the links below to RSVP to speak up for the supportive housing site Once you RSVP, we’ll be in touch to share suggested talking points and logistical details!

We are in need of a few more volunteers to assist at a computer literacy workshop in Midtown! Help residents learn about internet basics, email/portal access, and how to recognize scams.

Email caroline@openheartsinitiative.org to RSVP!