Erin Dalton: Introduction and DSS commitment to vulnerable populations
DSS Commissioner Erin Dalton introduces joined officials and describes DSS's commitment to culturally competent services, recognizing unique experiences of LGBTQIA and TGNC communities seeking assistance.
Good morning.
My name is Erin Dalton and I serve as the Commissioner for New York City Department of Social Services and my pronouns are she and her.
I would like to thank Chair Hudson, Chair Farias, and the members of the Committee on General Welfare, the members of the Committee on Women and Gender Equity for convening today's hearing on housing instability among LGBTQIA individuals in New York City.
I am joined today by John Rojas, HRA Chief Special Services Officer, Rima Rivera, HRA Deputy Commissioner for Domestic Violence Services, Andrea Reed,
HRA Executive Deputy Commissioner for Housing Services, and Sonia Russell, DHS Interim Deputy Commissioner for Adult Services and Shelter Operations.
Serving vulnerable populations is an integral part of our work at DSS.
Through our work at the Human Resources Administration, or HRA, and the Department of Homeless Services, or DHS, we understand that our clients are reaching out for assistance precisely because they are in an acutely vulnerable moment.
As stewards of critical programs and resources, it is incumbent upon us to recognize that one size does not fit all.
That is why recognizing the unique experiences of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, intersex, and asexual, LGBTQIA, transgender, and gender nonconforming TGNC communities is so important to our work.