Empire State Supportive Housing Initiative

The Empire State Supportive Housing Initiative (ESSHI) is a collaborative effort led by New York State to develop and sustain supportive housing for vulnerable populations experiencing homelessness. The initiative supports Governor Hochul’s housing plan by creating or preserving affordable and supportive housing units. Aimed at addressing homelessness through evidence-based strategies, the initiative uses the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Continuum of Care (CoC) model and engages localities and nonprofit providers. The program’s goal is to develop 1,400 units of supportive housing annually, contributing to the larger goal of 20,000 units over 15 years. Funding is managed through an interagency group with the New York State Office of Mental Health (OMH) acting as the lead agency. Additional participating agencies include the Department of Health, Homes and Community Renewal, Office of Addiction Services and Supports, Office of Children and Family Services, Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence, Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, and Office for People With Developmental Disabilities. Awards provide up to $34,000 per qualifying individual annually in the New York City metro area and up to $31,000 per individual in the rest of the state. Services must align with supportive housing principles, including a Housing First model and low-barrier admissions. Eligible applicants are New York-based nonprofit organizations and tribal organizations with relevant experience in housing or supportive services for eligible target populations. Applicants must demonstrate that their project addresses gaps identified by CoC data or other local data sources and secure a letter of support from their local CoC or planning entity. Proof of notification to local government units is required before final funding lock-in. Projects must provide integrated housing settings and adhere to Olmstead requirements to ensure community-based living for individuals with disabilities. Proposals must be submitted through the Statewide Financial System (SFS), with applicants prequalified in the system. Required materials include an operating budget and budget narrative. Key application questions cover topics such as project need, service approach, target population, readiness, partnerships, and budget details. Sixty percent of the scoring emphasizes local needs, while the remainder evaluates cost-effectiveness and project readiness. Projects serving priority populations, such as chronically homeless individuals, those with mental health or substance use disorders, and victims of domestic violence, may receive scoring advantages. Applicants can submit questions by June 16, 2025, and participate in a webinar on June 10, 2025. Proposals are due by July 15, 2025, at 2:00 PM EST. Conditional awards will be announced by September 4, 2025. Selected projects must secure capital financing within 24 months to retain their award. The initial service and operating contract is for five years, renewable based on continued funding availability. For assistance, applicants may contact Carol Swiderski, Contract Management Specialist 3, NYS Office of Mental Health, at Carol.Swiderski@omh.ny.gov.