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HLI Blog! A library of information about the homeless
We have over 350 blogs about homelessness, to find the topic you are looking for, enter your question in the search icon, or simply scroll or see our different catagories.


Navigating Suffolk County Emergency Housing: How to Survive, Protect Your Belongings, and Keep Moving Forward
Summary Navigating emergency housing through Suffolk DSS can feel dehumanizing, especially when faced with indifferent operators and unsafe, shared room environments. To protect your well-being, treat your stay as temporary by strictly documenting all caseworker communications, securing your vital documents and food, maintaining neutral boundaries with roommates, and leveraging local housing advocacy groups to help transition into permanent, safe housing. Reaching out to Soci
Jul 253 min read
Does Suffolk County DSS Provide Emergency Shelter for Non-Residents?
Suffolk County Department of Social Services (DSS) is legally obligated to provide emergency shelter to anyone who presents themselves as homeless and in immediate need, regardless of which county or state they originally came from. New York operates under a strict "constitutional right to shelter" framework, meaning a local DSS district cannot turn someone away who has no safe place to stay tonight based solely on a lack of local residency. However, the process comes with im
Jun 302 min read


Boots on the Ground: Our Daily Fight Against Homelessness
Homeless Long Island: Restoring Lives with Mercy and Action Homeless Long Island (HLI), operated by Infinite Reach Corp, is a faith-based response team dedicated to serving the "unseen" populations of Nassau and Suffolk Counties. By combining emergency street outreach—providing life-saving gear like bivy bags and tents—with expert navigation of social services, HLI bridges the gap between the sidewalk and a safe home. The organization focuses on veterans, seniors, and the dis
Jun 224 min read


Homeless Families in Suffolk County Campgrounds: Resources and Support
Suffolk County, NY has emerged as a location where homeless families live in campgrounds during warmer months, utilizing the amenities available while facing significant seasonal and logistical challenges. New York State and Suffolk County campground regulations—which limit stays to 7-14 nights and require site changes every 1-2 weeks—create barriers for families seeking stable temporary housing. Organizations like Family Service League, Homeless Long Island, and Community Ho
Jan 313 min read


What are the statistics of homelessness in campgrounds in Nassau and Suffolk over the past ten years?
The issue of homelessness in campgrounds has become increasingly visible over the past decade in Nassau and Suffolk Counties. As economic ch
Dec 5, 20252 min read


How to Do a DSS Transfer to Another Address Without an Inspection in Nassau & Suffolk County, NY
A DSS transfer to a new address in Suffolk County, NY without a housing inspection is generally possible only if you are not applying for ne
Oct 4, 20252 min read


Respite Housing for Homeless Individuals, Including Those with Pets?
Respite housing primarily focuses on providing short-term shelter along with access to supportive services that help individuals transition to permanent housing. In Nassau and Suffolk counties, several organizations and facilities provide these services: Long Island Coalition for the Homeless
- Services: Provides outreach and resources for homeless individuals, including information about available respite housing and referral services.
- Contact: LICH Website Phone:
May 5, 20253 min read


Eviction Filings in Suffolk County NY.
Eviction Filings in Suffolk County In Suffolk County, New York, eviction filings have been a significant concern, especially following...
Apr 28, 20252 min read


NO EBT ATM FEE! Learn what facilities that will not charge to withdraw cash from an ATM with your EBT card.
ATMs owned by your bank or within its partnered network (like Allpoint or MoneyPass) typically won't charge out-of-network fees. Use your bank's mobile app or website to locate in-network ATMs near you.
Banks Waiving Fees:
Some major banks, including Wells Fargo, Chase, Bank of America, and Citibank, waive ATM fees for EBT cardholders, even if you're not a customer of those banks.
Check with Your EBT Card Provider:
Contact your EBT card provider (e.g., BenefitsCal) or local
Apr 24, 20252 min read


Affordable housing opportunities in Suffolk County NY
If you're searching for an affordable rental in Suffolk County, NY, there are several options available that cater to various needs and income levels. Here’s a comprehensive overview of some current rental opportunities.For more information or specific inquiries on applications, refer to the provided links to access the respective application forms and guidelines.
Apr 16, 20252 min read


How to Close Your DSS Account and Transition Services to Nassau or Suffolk Counties, NY
Step 1: Review Your Current Benefits
Begin by reviewing the services currently provided through your DSS account, including:
- Food Assistance (SNAP)
- Medicaid
- Temporary Assistance
- Child Care Subsidies
Understanding your benefits will help you communicate your needs effectively during the transition.
Step 2: Gather Necessary Documentation
Before you proceed, make sure you have the following documentation ready:
1. Identification Documents: Such as a
Apr 11, 20252 min read


I’m Being Threatened by My Landlord for Non-Payment of Rent. What to do. Resources for Nassau and Suffolk Counties, NY
Facing threats from your landlord due to non-payment of rent is a distressing situation that requires immediate action. In the United States
Apr 6, 20252 min read


What is SPA Housing? How long does it take to get spa housing? What is the procedure?
What is SPA Housing? SPA (Supportive Housing Program) housing is a specialized type of housing designed to assist individuals who require...
Mar 30, 20252 min read


List of VFW AND American Legion halls, along with Kiwanis clubs on Long Island, NY.
Here’s a list of American Legion posts, VFW halls, and Kiwanis clubs on Long Island NY, CALL ALL FOR HELP IF YOUR A COMBAT VETERAN WHO IS HOMELESS. Start to Call, or Email all until you get the help you need. Long Island both Nassau and suffolk counties
Mar 25, 20252 min read


How Does Section 8 Calculate Its Income Guidelines in NYS?
Section 8, a federal housing assistance program, calculates its income guidelines based on the Area Median Income (AMI) for various regions
Feb 11, 20251 min read


How to Get an Order of Protection in Suffolk County, NY
If you are a victim of domestic violence or fear for your safety, obtaining an order of protection is an important step to ensure your safe
Feb 8, 20251 min read


What Should I Do Next After My Housing and Reasonable Accommodations Request Was Denied by the Department of Social Services.
Denied by Dss fair housing act
Jan 18, 20252 min read


Homeless Statistics in Nassau and Suffolk Counties NY
Homeless Statistics in Nassau and Suffolk Counties Homelessness is a significant issue across Nassau and Suffolk counties in New York. According to the most recent data from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and local agencies, the following outlines the homeless statistics by township. Nassau County Homelessness by Town 1. Hempstead: Approximately 1,200 homeless individuals - Notable hamlets: Hempstead Village, West Hempstead, East Meadow 2. North
Jan 9, 20251 min read


Woman Homeless over 50 Facts and Statistics (homeless senior woman) homeless-senior-woman
This post will help you understand the impact the economy has on senior woman going homeless
Feb 18, 20243 min read
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