This vital approach ensures that our housing is available to those who need it most. And, Community Access develops permanent housing, because we know that having a stable home is the essential foundation upon which people can shape their futures. We also understand that housing is a foundational part of someone’s trajectory, not the final destination. A home can be a sanctuary, a place from which one can face challenges and embrace opportunities – a starting point to build the skills and supports one needs to achieve their goals: personal, professional, or health-related — whatever is important to each person.
FIVE PRINCIPLES
HOUSING FIRST
Immediate access to permanent housing with no artificial “housing-readiness” requirements like sobriety, employment, or treatment.
CHOICE AND SELF-DETERMINATION
Each person has choices in terms of what services they receive and when they want them.
RECOVERY ORIENTATION
Tenants have access to the supports they need to guide their own recovery.
INDIVIDUALIZED SUPPORTS
Tenants have access to trauma-informed, culturally competent services.
SOCIAL AND COMMUNITY INTEGRATION
We encourage people to live the lives of their own choosing. We offer many social and recreational activities plus access to educational, occupational, and vocational opportunities.
Community (Income-Based) Housing
At some of our locations, we offer affordable housing to low- and moderate-income New Yorkers: studios and 1-bedroom apartments for individuals, and 2-bedroom apartments for families.
- Apply for an Apartment:
- If you are interested in Community Housing, please carefully review the following application form, which includes eligibility requirements, rent information, and further instructions. If you meet eligibility requirements and would like to apply, Community Housing offers two ways to submit your application:
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- or Print & Mail Application Form
- Application Process:
- Please apply through your service provider or shelter. We cannot accept any other kind of application.
If you are referred to us through a referral agency, we'll invite you to an intake interview during which we'll guide you through the remainder of the application process. - Application Process:
- Please apply through your service provider or shelter. We cannot accept any other kind of application.
Our supportive housing is funded by state and city agencies that require tenants to meet various eligibility criteria, which vary from site to site. If you are referred to us through a referral agency, we'll connect with you to determine if and how you meet these requirements.
Transitional Housing
Our transitional housing helps people with psychiatric disabilities move from shelters and hospitals into the community. Residents typically stay for between six to 18 months before—with our assistance—moving on to a more independent housing arrangement.
Supportive Housing
We offer rent-subsidized housing with support services to people with psychiatric disabilities and histories of homelessness.
Community Access has developed 21 properties throughout New York City – and has a strategic goal to grow our real estate development pipeline from 2,000 to 4,000 units: homes for 8,000 people. Visit our real estate development page to learn more about the work we are doing in affordable and supportive housing development.
STUDIOS, 1-, 2-, and 3-BEDROOMS
We build supportive and affordable housing for individuals living with mental health concerns and families with children – and aspire to enrich people’s lives through access to opportunities, friendships, and so much more!
BUILDING STAFF
Our buildings have 24/7 security, live-in superintendents, and program teams who help keep our buildings welcoming and accessible for tenants.
SUPPORT SERVICES
Service coordinators and other staff provide supportive services in the areas of mental and physical health, harm reduction, education, and employment.
BUILDING AMENITIES
Shared spaces in our buildings include: community rooms and lounges, computer labs, gyms, youth and family activity rooms, and laundry facilities.
PET FRIENDLY
We love pets, and we encourage our tenants to adopt cats, dogs, and other animals.
COMMUNITY GATHERINGS
We regularly host movie nights, community dinners, and other fun activities for tenants, their families, and friends.
OUTDOOR AREAS
We have attractive landscaping that includes outdoor fitness, gardens, urban farming, and quiet areas.
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
Many of our tenants also connect with us to participate in community festivals, parades, and advocacy efforts.
FEATURED VIDEO
Meet some of our tenants and participants who share their journeys and involvement with Community Access in our new short film: “I Have Something to Offer.”