NY A02502

Establishes a mandatory shelter supplement program requiring local social services districts to provide housing assistance equal to 85% of fair market rent to eligible individuals and families who are homeless or facing imminent loss of housing

Defines eligibility to include public assistance recipients who are homeless, living in shelters, exiting institutions, fleeing domestic violence, or facing eviction, with the program beginning October 1, 2026

Provides supplements for up to 5 years (with extensions for good cause) and continues benefits for one year after leaving public assistance if income stays below 200% of the federal poverty level

Caps the program at 14,000 new shelter supplements statewide annually, distributed to districts based on their share of households below the federal poverty level

Requires 100% state reimbursement (using federal and state funds) for all program costs, including shelter supplements, heating expenses, and support services provided by contracted non-profit agencies