Empire State Supportive Housing Initiative (ESSHI)

Through an annual RFP process, New York State's Empire State Supportive Housing Initiative (ESSHI) provides the service and operating funding needed to operate permanent supportive housing units in an integrated setting that will be developed through outside capital funding mechanisms. Up to $25,000 in services and operating funding is available annually for each qualifying individual / unit. The eligible target populations to be served under this program are (1) families with a qualifying individual, individuals and/or young adults who are both homeless and (2) who are identified as having an unmet housing need, and (3) have one or more disabling conditions or other life challenges. Eligible uses of the funding include rental subsidies, wrap-around non-medical supportive services, and operating and staff costs to provide services.