The number of homeless shelters across NYC exploded nearly 50% in the last four years from 333 to 499, as Gotham’s vagrant population doubled and its shelter industrial complex bled $4 billion in taxpayer money in a single year.
Shelters set aside for single adults – which critics say are the most problematic facilities because they are more likely than family shelters to bring violent criminals to neighborhoods – surged 35%, from 155 to 209, a Post review of Department of Homeless Services data found.
What’s worse is there is no end to the perpetually growing problem, according to critics, who blame the administration of socialist Mayor Zohran Mamdani and other lefty pols for pushing policies that lead to more homelessness.
“These numbers are the unfortunate side effect of politicians and their followers putting ideology over reality,” said Councilwoman Joann Ariola (R-Queens). “Things like rent control might sound great on paper, but in reality, they mean less residential development, and fewer units on the market as landlords don’t have the funds needed to renovate when a tenant moves out…