On-site Whole Health Services Helped 90% of Residents Avoid a Psychiatric Emergency Room Visit; the Number of Residents Seeing a Primary Care Physician More Than Doubled
Program Supports Those Experiencing Serious Mental Health Challenges and Histories of Homelessness
(New York, N.Y.)—This spring, the Institute for Community Living (ICL) Nevins Street Apartments housing program marked one year of providing housing paired with whole health supports for individuals and families experiencing mental health challenges and homelessness—offering a model of success amid the city’s dual mental health and housing crises.
Residents at ICL Nevins Street Apartments are healthier, happier, and more independent by many measures. Since moving in a year ago, 90% of residents have not needed to visit a psychiatric emergency room; 36% are connected to mental health services; 87% are at less risk for substance use disorders, and the number of residents seeing a primary care physician more than doubled.
The mixed-use development in downtown Brooklyn offers 78 supportive homes—including homes for veterans, individuals with substance use disorders, and young adults who have aged out of foster care. Amenities at Nevins include 24-hour front desk security, an exercise room, a computer lab, bike parking, a community room, a multi-purpose room, a laundry room, and tenant storage rooms. The building is in the heart of downtown Brooklyn with easy access to multiple subway lines, the LIRR at Atlantic Terminal, and several bus routes. The neighborhood features abundant shopping, restaurants, entertainment, health care, and recreation.
“Housing is the best prescription for health and well-being. Nevins Street Apartments proves that providing a safe place to call home and whole health services can help those struggling with severe mental challenges get better,” said Jody Rudin, President and CEO of ICL. “This type of program is essential to addressing the dual housing and mental health crises in New York City. And Nevins reflects ICL’s commitment to integrated, whole-person care focused on addressing an individual’s physical, mental, and social well-being.”
Nevins Street Apartments offers more than just a home; the supportive housing program addresses many of the vital conditions that impact well-being—including integrated physical and mental health care. ICL counselors and case managers support residents, including families and children, in addressing financial stability, nutrition and health, education, and social isolation.
“My dream was to have my own place. A year ago, when I was living at a shelter, I would stand outside of Nevins and envision one day living here,” said Yumedys Gonzalez, a resident at Nevins Street Apartments. “I love living here because of the peace it gives me, the supportive staff, and how I can be independent. I’ve proved to myself that I can do this.”
“Getting people out of shelters and into housing with support services is the best way to get individuals on their feet and the path to productivity,” said Council Member Robert Holden. “I congratulate ICL on their milestone at the Nevins Street complex and wish them even greater success as they continue to expand and refine this impactful model.”
“Since the beautiful renovations were completed a year ago, ICL’s Nevins Street Apartments housing program has again been providing truly affordable housing paired with services like mental health treatment for formerly homeless New Yorkers,” said Council Member Lincoln Restler. “Supportive housing is a critical component of ending homelessness in New York City, and this is a model for how we can ensure folks have the resources they need to get on their feet.”
