Wi-Fi For Homeless New Yorkers

On a given night in NYC, there are over 79,000 homeless New Yorkers with 80% identifying as Black and Brown and one-third being those under the age of 18 years old. Since the fatal onset of COVID-19, our society has quickly shifted itself from physical engagement to “physical distancing.” Unfortunately, this transition left behind those that are unable to partake in physical distancing and safely “shelter at home” because they do not have homes. Having little to no access to essential internet,homeless New Yorkers are cut off from life-saving access to healthcare, social services, mental health, education and employment opportunities, housing market, and current events. According to a recent study by the City Bar Justice Center, 75% of current and former shelter residents believe that access to the internet and technology improve their circumstances and access to opportunities. Last month,  Mayor de Blasio announced plans to expedite the expansion of internet access to low-income communities of color, yet there has been no mention of this expansion to include homeless New Yorkers. We demand to no longer be overlooked and be prioritized last in the city’s responses to COVID-19. We demand:

• The city must ensure reliable, high-speed internet access to all dormitories at all shelters, including DHS, HRA, DYCD, HPD, OEM and all temporary hotel rooms.
• The city must ensure regular upkeep and maintenance of internet service at all shelters.

“Having access to the internet is our human right. As the most vulnerable population, internet is needed for basic human survival that cannot continue to be denied.”- Milton Perez, HU Leader, currently residing in a NYC shelter with no internet.