On Wednesday, July 31st, the transition of a former Manhattan College dormitory into a migrant shelter in Riverdale, Bronx, was confirmed. The building at 435 West 238th Street will soon house 95 migrant families, according to City Council Member Eric Dinowitz. This decision has sparked mixed reactions among local residents.
The shelter, managed by WestHab, a nonprofit organization, will provide meals, social services, and support systems for migrant families. Council Member Dinowitz has emphasized the need for collaboration with the administration to ensure the migrants receive adequate support and services. “We should prioritize the construction and renovation of housing over shelters, but the administration has chosen to incentivize the use and construction of shelters rather than permanent housing,” Dinowitz stated.
While some residents, like Miriam Hendel, are supportive and eager to volunteer, others have expressed concerns. Hugh McGuire, a 94-year-old Korean War veteran, voiced his apprehensions, stating, “It’s not going to be good if they’re hanging around all day with nothing to do. That’s not going to lead anywhere good.” Another resident noted that many in the neighborhood are unhappy with the decision and contemplating leaving.
The local community’s concerns are not new. Last year, around 75 demonstrators protested the shelter plans, holding signs that read “Affordable Housing, yes! Migrants, no!” The protests highlighted fears of neighborhood degradation and increased crime. Dinowitz has called for the administration to ensure that the new residents receive the necessary support to integrate smoothly into the community.
The shelter is part of New York City’s broader response to the influx of over 210,000 asylum seekers since spring 2022. With 213 emergency sites, including 15 humanitarian centers, the city is striving to meet the growing need for shelter. A spokesperson for the Department of Social Services (DSS) reiterated the city’s commitment to providing safe and secure accommodations for these families, who have endured long and challenging journeys.
The transformation of the former dormitory, purchased by the Stagg Group in May 2023 for $18 million, into a migrant shelter is intended to be temporary. However, the long-term impact on the Riverdale community remains a point of contention. Dinowitz has urged the administration to prioritize permanent housing solutions over temporary shelters and to engage with the local community effectively.
As the city continues to address the migrant crisis, the focus remains on balancing the needs of asylum seekers with those of local residents, ensuring support and stability for all involved.
