Atzamal Tone (Project Renewal): Marsha's House services and outcomes

Good morning.

Good morning, Chairs Hudson and Farias.

Thank you for chairing this hearing.

My name is Atzamal Tone.

I am the Nurse Care Manager for HIV and Gender Affirming Care at Project Renewal.

For over 55 years, we have provided comprehensive shelter, health care, and employment services to New Yorkers experiencing homelessness.

We are deeply grateful to the City Council for its continued commitment to addressing housing instability, particularly among LGBTQIA plus individuals.

Project Renewal operates Marsha's House in the Bronx, New York City's first shelter tailored specifically for LGBTQIA plus young adults aged 18 to 35.

These young people need far more than just a bed.

Many have faced severe family rejection, trauma, and systemic discrimination.

Traditional shelter environments can often create additional fear and vulnerability if the care provided is not explicitly affirming and responsive to their needs.

Marsha's House offers 81 beds and provides crucial coordinated support, including primary health care, mental health services, occupational therapy, and job readiness programs.

Our holistic approach delivers tangible results.

In fiscal year 26, we successfully placed 28 residents into permanent long-term housing.

We also know that true housing stability requires addressing trauma and access to health simultaneously.

Thanks to the New York City Council, the LGBTQIA Plus Community Services Initiative provides critical support for our gender-affirming primary and behavioral health care to homeless trans and GNC New Yorkers in NYC.

As the council considers housing instability among LGBTQIA plus New Yorkers, we urge continued investments in shelter and housing models that are designed with LGBTQIA plus communities in mind.

Thank you.

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Thank you.

Thank you for your partnership.

Thank you so much.