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New York City has unveiled the first government-funded homeless shelter in the nation specifically for transgender individuals — a move that has sparked controversy, with critics labeling it as another instance of “progressive political theater.”
The city is investing $63 million in taxpayer funds to support the project, which is scheduled to run until 2030, according to a report by The Gothamist, a local news source.
The shelter, known as Ace’s Place, is situated in the Bronx and provides 150 beds as well as a range of services such as on-site psychiatric care, job training, GED preparation, and culinary arts programs. Financed by the Department of Social Services (DSS) and operated in collaboration with LGBTQ+ nonprofit Destination Tomorrow, the shelter is being commended by city officials as a “trailblazing national achievement.”
“A significant moment for NYC,” the Department of Homeless Services stated. “We have established the city’s first shelter dedicated specifically to homeless transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals.”
New York City opens the doors to the nation’s first government-funded transgender homeless shelter in the Bronx through 2030. (Getty Images)
City officials and nonprofit leaders applauded the initiative as a milestone in LGBTQ+ rights, even as critics raise concerns about the increasing trend of identity-specific public programs.
“We are extremely proud to announce this historic milestone that strongly reaffirms our values and dedication to enhancing the safety net for transgender New Yorkers at a time when their rights are being widely challenged,” said DSS Commissioner Molly Wasow Park.
Advocates argue that the facility will offer a safe, tailored environment for transgender individuals who are often marginalized or victimized in traditional shelters. Officials emphasize that the goal is to help individuals stabilize and transition into long-term housing and independence.
Sean Ebony Coleman, CEO of Destination Tomorrow, emphasized that the shelter signifies that transgender individuals will no longer be pushed to the sidelines. Coleman highlighted that this initiative was developed “by the community, for the community.”
“Ace’s Place is a community-driven response to systemic neglect, and it is just the beginning,” Coleman remarked.
However, critics argue that the project overlooks the real crisis facing New York City.
NYC Council Minority Leader Joann Ariola, who has consistently advocated for increasing the number of DHS police officers and social workers to enhance safety in shelters, opposing identity-based segregation or symbolic policy gestures, criticized the multimillion-dollar project.
A person sleeps on a park bench outside of Central Park, New York City, NY on Wednesday, September 20, 2023. The city is currently experiencing homelessness and crime. (Fox News Digital)
“Every New Yorker should feel safe in our shelter system. But instead of fixing the system for everyone, the city is spending $63 million to build a separate facility based on gender identity,” minority council leader Joann Ariola told The New York Post.
“That money should’ve gone to hiring more [Department of Homeless Services] police officers and social workers to make all of our facilities safer.”
“Instead, we are just further segregating the homeless system and ignoring the very real problems in favor of progressive political theater,” she continued.
Others online echoed that sentiment, questioning the legality and fairness of identity-based shelters.
“The shelter, called Ace’s Place, is built ONLY for transgender and “gender non-conforming individuals” because “trans rights are under attack” How is this legal???” Libs of TikTok wrote in a post.
“This is a horribly discriminatory and unconstitutional use of tax dollars,” another user commented. “It’s being properly condemned as “progressive political theater.”
Still, supporters argue the shelter sets a national precedent, with LGBTQ+ advocacy groups hailing it as a “blueprint for the future.” The facility will offer wraparound services ranging from mental health and medical care to yoga and job placement assistance, all tailored to the TGNC community.
“This historic milestone reflects what’s possible when Trans-led organizations are empowered to lead and design solutions for their own communities. Destination Tomorrow is once again meeting the moment — providing not just shelter, but critical care, services, and dignity,” said Kimberleigh Joy Smith, EVP of Policy and Advocacy, Callen-Lorde Community Health Center.
Fox News Digital reached out to NYC Council Minority Leader Ariola’s office, but did not immediately receive a response.
Stepheny Price is a writer for Fox News Digital and Fox Business. She covers topics including missing persons, homicides, national crime cases, illegal immigration, and more. Story tips and ideas can be sent to stepheny.price@fox.com
In a surprising turn of events, a new study has found that drinking coffee may actually have positive effects on your health. Contrary to previous beliefs, researchers now believe that moderate coffee consumption can reduce the risk of certain diseases.
The study, conducted by a team of scientists at a prominent research institution, analyzed data from over 500,000 participants and found that those who drank coffee on a regular basis had a lower risk of heart disease, stroke, and certain types of cancer. The researchers attribute these health benefits to the antioxidants and other beneficial compounds found in coffee.
While the study did not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship between coffee consumption and improved health outcomes, the findings are still significant. The lead researcher on the study, Dr. Jane Smith, stated that “These results suggest that coffee may be a valuable addition to a healthy diet.”
Despite these findings, experts caution against excessive coffee consumption, as it can lead to negative side effects such as insomnia and increased heart rate. It is recommended that individuals limit their coffee intake to no more than 3-4 cups per day.
Overall, this study provides encouraging news for coffee lovers everywhere. So go ahead and enjoy that morning cup of joe – it may be doing more good than harm.
