Shelter coming to Stillwell Avenue: Gjonaj

20201230_131203
The future site for a shelter coming to CB 11
Photo by Jason Cohen

After many people were not pleased that a shelter is coming to Blondell Ave., it looks like another is being built in Community Board 11.

On Dec. 29, Councilman Mark Gjonaj was informed by the NYC Department of Social Services about a planned 200-bed single men’s shelter at 1682 Stillwell Ave.

It is being developed by the Lantern Group and is anticipated to open in late 2021. The property is an old auto body shop.

Gjonaj and CB 11 hope to meet with DHS and the provider in the near future.

“I am actively working to learn more about the details and intentions for this site,” Gjonaj said on Facebook. “We are currently coordinating with Community Board 11 to organize public meetings for residents, elected officials and stakeholders to discuss this project and what’s in the best interest of our community.”

On-site services will include case management, individual and group counseling, permanency planning and housing placement assistance, referrals to medical and mental health services, support groups, independent living and life skills workshops, and residential services and support in finding and securing employment.

Off-site service linkages will include primary healthcare, health/mental health services, substance use treatment, vocational training, employment placement, GED instruction, conflict mediation and legal services.

Lantern Group will provide 24/7 on-site security. Security officers will be located at the entrance and to monitor security cameras, which will be located throughout the building and grounds.