COVID-19 pandemic density hotel initiative for people experiencing homelessness: New York City, 2020-2021
summary
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the New York City Department of Homeless Services’ density hotel initiative moved approximately 9,500 individuals from congregate homeless shelters into hotels to reduce risks related to viral transmission. We describe the initiative, provide insight from interviews with hotel staff and clients, and discuss implications for the future. Full citation:
Doran KM, Passmore H, Henderson R, Rodriguez I, Smith M, Carter J, Freeman R, Berry CA, Laraque F (2026). COVID-19 pandemic density hotel initiative for people experiencing homelessness: New York City, 2020-2021
Journal of Health Care for the Poor and Underserved, 37 (1), 422-429. doi: 10.1353/hpu.2026.a982982.