"This system ensures that a family in need of shelter will be connected immediately to the person who can help them get exactly what they need", said Legislator Abrahams. "No one will be turned away."

Operators for the hotline will direct callers to the appropriate departments and services for their individual situations, eliminating much of the confusion and duplication that plagued the system in place from the previous administration.

The new single point of entry system is the brainchild of the County Executive Thomas Suozzi's Homeless Taskforce, created in October of 2002. Section 8 employees in the Office of Housing and Intergovernmental Affairs will answer all calls to the hotline. During business hours calls will be referred to the Department of Social Services for appropriate services.

However, between the hours of 5PM and 9AM, Section 8 employees will make appropriate referrals and provide shelter placement.

This new service is being provided at no additional cost to the county. If winter conditions persist beyond March 31, 2005 the program will continue until better weather arrives.