Simone unveils plan to tackle addiction, mental health, and homelessness crises in NY

Assemblymember Tony Simone has introduced a comprehensive plan to address the intertwined crises of addiction, mental health, and homelessness in New York. Speaking at a press conference, Simone presented the SUM NY Report, which outlines actionable solutions aimed at creating safer streets for New Yorkers.

Simone emphasized the importance of a “housing first” model, stating,

Not only is it far cheaper than any alternative, it is more effective in getting people into stable recovery.

He added that expanding neighborhood navigator programs and clubhouses is crucial for reaching those who are service-averse.

Simone said,

This is a coalition, not a monolith. While we all agree that these crises need to be solved, we will not all 100% agree on how that should be done. What we do agree on is that the system as it has existed since the pandemic, and long before, is not working.

Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal, who co-introduced the SUPPORT Act with Simone, said,

As any New Yorker can tell you, we need to do more to address the mental health crisis on our streets and in our public transit system.

Tom Harris, President of the Times Square Alliance, praised Simone’s efforts, saying,

Kudos to Assembly Member Tony Simone for confronting this very real issue and recognizing that the status quo is neither compassionate or humane.

Regina Myer, President of the Downtown Brooklyn Partnership, highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach, stating,

Strengthening our supportive housing system, bolstering our care infrastructure and fixing how our justice system deals with mental illness will provide meaningful help to vulnerable New Yorkers.

Ann-Marie Foster, President & CEO of Phoenix House of New York & Long Island, stressed the importance of government investment, saying,

New York lawmakers must prioritize building supportive housing so New Yorkers can continue their road to recovery and pathway to stability.

Trey Jenkins, Executive Director of the 161st Street Business Improvement District, expressed gratitude for Simone’s leadership, saying,

We hope that the SUM NY Report compiled by Assemblymember Simone, and his team will be the first step in addressing concerns that have often plagued our neighborhoods.

Nicole Patton, Manager of Policy and Advocacy at Fountain House, noted the effectiveness of community models like clubhouses, stating,

Clubhouses support people living with serious mental illness to reach their education, employment, wellness, housing, and social goals.

Laura Rothrock, President of the Long Island City Partnership, emphasized the need for a holistic approach, saying,

By taking a holistic and compassionate approach outlined in SUM NY, we can implement long-term solutions that support vulnerable individuals while also strengthening housing policy.

Fred Shack, CEO of Urban Pathways, underscored the urgency of addressing homelessness, stating,

With a 53% increase in homelessness in New York State last year, we have an obligation to strengthen this foundation in the State budget this year.

Simone’s plan calls for comprehensive reform across the system to make a meaningful difference for New Yorkers, with a focus on supportive housing, wraparound services, and fair compensation for human service providers.