Neighbors in Borough Park remain strongly against family shelter proposal, despite increased security
When News 12 arrived to the site of the shelter on Monday, around 20 neighbors followed.
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Community members in Borough Park say they remain strongly against a planned homeless shelter for families near Maimonides Hospital, despite assurances of increased security.
When News 12 arrived to the site of the shelter on Monday, around 20 neighbors followed.
"If you bring more homeless shelters over here, it's going to be very tough for the whole neighborhood," says one business owner.
The Department of Homelessness says it is confident the shelter will make a positive impact on the community and for those who live inside.
"This new facility will be the first DHS shelter of any kind in this Council District, and we look forward to working with our not-for-profit provider-partner Midway Living to provide critical supports and services to families with children experiencing homelessness," said a DHS spokesperson.
The spokesperson shared that the site will serve up to 82 families and provide them with opportunities to stabilize their lives, utilize services and transition into permanent housing.
They also shared that more that 100 security cameras will be installed on site and around the shelter.
Midway Living, which will operate the site, will also have security guards on site, with a minimum of 10 guards per shift.
Safety assurances aside, residents in the area say that this is not enough to convince them.
One neighbor said that the idea of needing security alone is a big red flag.
The proposed shelter is planned to open in "mid-2025," says DHS.
News 12 asked a DHS spokesperson if that means it will be before the 2025-2026 school year. News 12 was told that it would be the goal.
