RESOURCES AROUND NEW YORK CITY
If you are looking for a resource that you don’t see here, please email us at info@rifnyc.org. Please note, if you need to use shelter, a food bank or soup kitchen, or emergency medical services, it will not affect your asylum application and/or green card application. If you have any uncertainty about the effect of using a public service, please email us!
NOTE: NEW NEW YORK STATE BENEFITS AVAILABLE!
There has been a change to when asylum-seekers qualify for financial support from New York state. The previous rule was that asylees don't qualify for SNA (Safety Net Assistance) until they receive their work permit. The new rule is that asylum-seekers need to show their receipt notice from USCIS to qualify. The cash benefit ($180/month per person) is available for up to two years and you can also qualify for non-cash assistance, such as utility and housing vouchers, Fair Fares (a half-priced Metrocard), and Medicaid. See more information here!
Apply for benefits on Access HRA
What do I need to show to qualify for SNA benefits?
Confirmation you have filed your application for asylum (receipt notice);
Rent letter, letter form a subletter, some confirmation about how much they pay for rent;
If you do not have stable housing, you can submit a letter from a shelter;
Copies of any IDs for family members (see here to see how to get an ID).
NOTE: If you cannot use computers or do not speak English, you can make an appointment and go to any Human Resources Administration (HRA) Job Center in the city with your documents to apply.
FIRST STEPS IN NEW YORK CITY
getting a photo id
Check out our resource page that explains how to get a NYS or NYC ID. Getting a photo ID is an important step to establish your identity in the U.S.
OPENING A BANK ACCOUNT
A bank account is a safe place to store money. Check out our resource page that explains how to open a bank account in NYC.
NEW YORK CITY SERVICES
shelters
Click the link below to go to access the Department of Homeless Services’ website. Select “Families” or “Single Adults” depending on your circumstances. Then select “Applying for Temporary Housing.”
fOOD BANKS
Click on the link below to see the Food Bank of New York City’s map of food banks and pantries. Many food banks and pantries have changed their procedures during COVID-19. Call ahead to ensure they are open.
hEALTH (eMERGENCY)
Click the link below to find the public hospital closest to you. If you are having a health emergency, go to the emergency room. You will be treated even if you don’t have your asylum status and or if you don’t have health insurance.
Health (non-emergency)
If you are looking for medical care, we recommend Betances Medical Center, which serves immigrants. They provide low cost health care and can help you sign up for health insurance.
Mental Health
Click the link below to see a list of New York City’s free mental health services as well as a list of organizations that provide psychological evaluations for asylum applicants.
English language classes
Click the link below to see a list of organizations that provide free English language classes for beginner through advanced speakers.