Page 7 - Jacquelyn Simone News Today

Data obtained by the Daily News shows that more than 9,000 encampments were dismantled under then-Mayor Bill de Blasio. Now, de Blasio’s “encampments manager” Shane Cox is carrying out similar policies under the new mayor and the only thing that appears to be different, homeless people say, is the explanation.

Over the last ten days, the city has removed more than 200 homeless encampments from city streets as part of the above-ground initiative. Last month, Adams rolled out a plan to remove homeless men and women from the subway system.

The mayor responded to advocates who criticized him for directing city workers to clear makeshift campsites.

The homeless who are targeted are themselves a stark symptom of the unprecedented social polarization and inequality in New York City and other metropolitan centers that have been touted—at least before the COVID-19 pandemic—as great success stories for American capitalism.

Additional safe haven units are something advocates for the homeless have long called for, and Adams highlighted the news that he’s close to fulfilling his vow to bring 500 new units into existence at a news briefing in the South Bronx, where 80 new beds are now being made available at a Care for the Homeless safe haven on Morris Ave.

The announcement of new beds in safe haven and stabilization shelters comes as the mayor ramps up controversial efforts to remove homeless encampments across the city.

"Sweeps and policing are not the answers to unsheltered homelessness," Jacquelyn Simone, policy director for the Coalition for the Homeless, said.

In the subways, nearly 80 people a week accepted shelter over a four-week period, Mayor Adams said. Officials have not yet said how many stayed off the street.

Advocates say that without safe and accessible housing options, Adams’s plan won’t reduce street homelessness.

Homeless advocacy group blasts Mayor Adams over planned shutdown of outdoor encampments.