December 2014

Hevesi Co-Chairs Public Hearing on
Homeless Services in New York State

Assemblyman Hevesi, in his capacity as Chair of the Oversight, Analysis and Investigations Committee, co-hosted a public hearing with Assemblywoman Michele Titus, Chair of the Social Services Committee, to further understand the effect of the 2014-2015 State Budget on homeless programs throughout New York State. Homelessness is at a critical mass, with the number of homeless adults and children at record levels. The Assemblyman discussed with his colleagues how local social services districts are combating this crisis, specifically examining how several programs have been funded and are managed. Several core programs such as the New York State Supportive Housing Program (NYSSHP), the Solutions to End Homelessness Program (STEHP), and the Operation Support for AIDS Housing (OSAH) were reviewed. The discussion and testimony assisted with understanding the objectives of the programs, and will play a crucial role as the legislature heads into the 2015 legislative session to address this issue.

Hevesi Holds Second Roundtable on
Child Protective Services (CPS) Iinvestigations
Last month, Assemblyman Hevesi hosted a second roundtable addressing the enhancement of Child Protective Services (CPS) investigations. Concentrating on how to further assist caseworkers by providing them with the proper information and support, the observations and ideas expressed at this roundtable provided insight into the regulations CPS caseworkers must follow. In addition, the discussion covered the issue of balance between suitable investigations and protecting the caseworkers security. The Statewide Central Register (SCR) for Child Abuse and Maltreatment handles every call of child abuse and neglect throughout the state. Following the first roundtable, a letter was sent by the Assembly Members to the Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS), with questions ranging from the number of calls that the SCR receives, to oversight of how the register is monitored and the rights of the person reporting information to the database.
Assemblyman Hevesi Co-Sponsors Toy Drive
Assemblyman Hevesi’s office is currently sponsoring a toy drive this December. All donated toys will be provided to children ages 3 to 5 years old to brighten their holiday season. Please feel free to donate the items to Assemblyman Hevesi’s district office located at 70-50 Austin Street, Suite 110, Forest Hills, NY 11375. Please contact our office at (718) 263-5595 if you have any further questions. Donations will be accepted until December 19th.
Hevesi Hosts 26th Annual New York Cares Coat Drive
Assemblymember Hevesi’s district office is accepting winter coats for the 26th Annual New York Cares Coat Drive. Many low-income residents rely on donated coats during winter to keep warm in the colder months, with no place to store it throughout the warmer weather. Donations will be accepted until December 31st. If you are interested in donating, please drop by the district office at 70-50 Austin Street, Suite 110, Forest Hills, NY 11375, or call the office at (718) 263-5595 to find the closest drop off location in your area.


Office Locations:
District Office: 70-50 Austin Street, Suite 110, Forest Hills, NY 11375 • 718-263-5595
Albany Office: Room 742 Legislative Office Building, Albany, NY 12248 • 518-455-4926
Email: hevesia@assembly.state.ny.us