New York City officials unveiled a new affordable housing development in the Bronx on Dec. 23, which includes 63 units for New Yorkers transitioning from shelters with CityFHEPS vouchers. The building at 2736 Creston Ave. represents the latest milestone in Mayor Eric Adams’ push to create nearly 900 permanent subsidized apartments through the Affordable Housing Services (AHS) initiative.
This initiative, launched in 2024, has already delivered nearly 400 deeply affordable units for individuals and families in shelters, with another 500 units expected to open by February 2025. Operated by The Doe Fund, a non-profit human services provider, the Bronx site offers residents stability and supportive services designed to break the cycle of homelessness.
“A home is more than a place to rest your head — it’s a foundation for a brighter future,” Adams said during the building’s ribbon-cutting. “With this opening, we’re giving New Yorkers the stability they need to thrive and delivering on our promise to create deeply affordable housing where it’s needed most.”
The AHS initiative leverages partnerships with nonprofit providers to secure long-term leases or purchase properties, ensuring affordability for decades. The program prioritizes housing for CityFHEPS voucher holders, addressing a significant gap for the 9,000 households in shelters holding vouchers but unable to find housing due to limited availability.
In fiscal year 2024, more than 18,500 households moved from shelters to permanent housing — a record for the city. The AHS initiative is part of a broader strategy by the Adams administration to expedite affordable housing production, simplify regulatory processes, and expand access to rental assistance programs.
“A robust shelter system is essential in a crisis, but permanent housing is the ultimate goal,” said Molly Wasow Park, commissioner of the New York City Department of Social Services. “This new development exemplifies our commitment to building affordable housing and creating pathways to stability for our most vulnerable neighbors.”
The Doe Fund, known for its “Ready, Willing, and Able” program, will manage the Creston Avenue building. The program focuses on workforce development and support for individuals overcoming justice system involvement or substance use challenges.
“The new Bronx AHS site provides a transformative opportunity for 63 individuals and families with histories of homelessness,” said Jennifer Mitchell, president and CEO of The Doe Fund. “We’re grateful to Mayor Adams and Commissioner Park for their leadership in turning ambitious housing goals into reality.”
