NYC homeless service providers warn of potential Trump deportations and cuts, tell Project 2025 to ‘drop dead’

photo by Dean Moses

With the anticipation of Donald Trump’s return to the White House, the nation is grappling with heightened concerns about the potential consequences for vulnerable populations. On January 8, 2025, Christine Quinn, CEO of Women in need (WIN) and former City Council speaker, joined forces with advocates for homeless and immigrant rights on the steps of City Hall. Their mission was clear: to raise awareness about the looming threats of mass deportations and the reduction of essential social services.

Quinn, alongside a coalition of service providers and activists, expressed strong opposition to the policies outlined in Project 2025, a controversial blueprint proposing sweeping social program reductions and aggressive immigration enforcement. “These policies would devastate the lives of countless individuals and families,” Quinn stated, emphasizing the human cost of such measures.

Despite Trump’s attempts to distance himself from Project 2025 during his campaign, his administration has appointed key figures behind the plan. Among them is Tom Homan, the incoming border czar and a vocal advocate for deportations. Homan recently met with New York City Mayor Eric Adams, sparking further concerns about the potential alignment of local and federal policies.

The rally at City Hall was more then a protest; it was a call to action. Advocates urged policymakers to reject the draconian measures proposed in project 2025 and to prioritize the needs of the most vulnerable. “We cannot stand by while these policies threaten to dismantle the safety nets that so many rely on,” Quinn declared.

As the Trump administration prepares to take office, the stakes for homeless and immigrant communities have never been higher. The voices of those gathered at City Hall serve as a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight for justice and equity in the face of adversity.

Christine Quinn, CEO of WIN, joined advocates on the steps of City Hall to denounce Project 2025 and its potential impact on vulnerable communities.
Photo by Dean Moses

As President-elect Trump prepares to take office on January 20, New York city is bracing for sweeping policy changes that could disproportionately affect its most vulnerable residents. Among the most contentious proposals is “Project 2025,” a set of policies that advocates say could lead to mass deportations, cuts to social services, and increased homelessness. In response, local leaders and organizations are taking a stand.

Christine Quinn, CEO of WIN, a leading homeless services provider, delivered a fiery rebuke of the incoming administration’s plans. Standing alongside immigrant rights advocates and service providers on the steps of City Hall, Quinn minced no words. “Make no mistake about it. Project 2025 is an attack on homeless people, on children, on low-income people, on immigrants, documented and undocumented, and many other Americans,” she declared. “President-elect Trump,New York City has a message for you about Project 2025,and it’s project 2025,drop dead.”

To combat the anticipated federal policy shifts, WIN and its partners have unveiled a complete 180-day action plan dubbed “project Hope.” This initiative aims to shield New Yorkers from the potential fallout of project 2025 by implementing several key measures:

• Expanding New York’s sanctuary state status beyond New York City, ensuring state and local governments can refuse cooperation with federal deportation efforts;
• Allocating $263 million in state funds to offset potential cuts to federal housing assistance programs like Section 8;
• Extending CityFHEPs housing vouchers to all households, nonetheless of immigration status, to prevent eviction spikes and rising homelessness; and
• Repealing the 30-60 day shelter limits for newly arrived immigrants, which advocates argue exacerbate the risk of homelessness.

sanctuary Cities Prepare for Project 2025: Advocates Rally for Accountability

Advocates warn of potential deportations and policy changes under Project 2025.

As the federal government prepares to implement Project 2025, a sweeping policy initiative, sanctuary cities across the nation are bracing for its potential impact. Advocates are raising alarms about the possible consequences for immigrant communities, housing stability, and access to essential services. In response, local leaders are rallying to protect vulnerable populations and uphold their cities’ values of inclusivity.

Understanding the Impact of Policy Changes on Local Communities

Project 2025 has sparked widespread concern among advocates and policymakers, notably in cities like New York, where diverse communities rely heavily on social services and immigrant protections. Critics argue that the initiative could destabilize housing, healthcare, and other critical systems, disproportionately affecting low-income families and marginalized groups.

“This isn’t just about politics—it’s about people’s lives,” said Christine Quinn, a prominent advocate and former New York City Council Speaker.“We’re talking about families who could lose their homes, children who could go hungry, and communities that could be torn apart. Project hope is our way of saying we won’t let that happen without a fight.”

The Ripple Effect of Policy Decisions

The proposed measures under Project 2025 could have far-reaching implications, not only for immigrants but also for the broader social fabric of cities. Advocates warn that policies targeting undocumented individuals could lead to increased deportations, family separations, and a chilling effect on community trust in local institutions.

In response, New York has launched Project Hope, a counter-initiative aimed at safeguarding residents from the potential fallout of federal policy changes. The program focuses on expanding legal aid,strengthening tenant protections,and ensuring access to healthcare and education for all residents,regardless of immigration status.

Looking Ahead: A Call for Thoughtful Action

as the nation watches the transition of power unfold, the clash between federal and local priorities is becoming increasingly apparent. New York’s proactive stance through Project Hope highlights the growing divide and sets the stage for a high-stakes battle over the future of social services and immigrant rights.

Quinn and her allies emphasize that the fight against project 2025 is not just about resisting federal overreach but also about preserving the values that define their communities. “We’re standing up for what we believe in—compassion, fairness, and the belief that everyone deserves a chance to thrive,” she said.

What Specific Provisions Within Project 2025 Are Generating the Most Concern?

While the full details of Project 2025 remain under wraps, certain provisions have already raised red flags. Advocates point to potential cuts in funding for social programs, stricter immigration enforcement, and policies that could undermine local control over housing and healthcare.

Project Hope seeks to address these concerns head-on by creating a safety net for those most at risk. By expanding legal resources and community outreach, the initiative aims to empower residents and ensure that no one falls through the cracks.

As the debate over Project 2025 intensifies, one thing is clear: the stakes are high, and the fight for accountability and justice is far from over.

Understanding the Impact of Policy Changes on Local Communities

Advocates fear that vulnerable populations, including homeless and low-income New Yorkers, will bear the brunt of policy changes under Project 2025.
Photo by Dean Moses

As the potential implementation of Project 2025 draws closer, advocates for sanctuary cities are raising urgent concerns.they are calling on local and state leaders to take decisive action to shield vulnerable communities from the anticipated fallout. Christine Quinn, a former New York City Council Speaker and a leading voice in this movement, is emphasizing the importance of accountability and proactive measures.

Quinn, who has witnessed the consequences of aggressive immigration enforcement firsthand, shared a story from the Trump administration era.She recounted an incident where ICE agents attempted to raid a shelter run by WIN, a nonprofit dedicated to helping homeless families. “They had to have a warrant signed by a judge, and it needed to be reviewed and approved by the General counsel at the Department of Homeless Services,” she explained. “When they arrived at the WIN shelter, they didn’t have the proper warrant, and the General Counsel hadn’t approved it. They were told to leave, and they had no choice but to go.”

This incident highlights the critical role of legal protections and the need for cities to stay alert. Quinn is urging mayor Eric Adams and Governor Kathy Hochul to stand firm on sanctuary city policies and resist any potential federal overreach. “the mayor has to decide which side he’s on,” she said. “We’re concerned about some of the mayor’s recent statements regarding sanctuary cities. This report serves two purposes: first, to provide a roadmap for how the city and state can counteract the effects of Project 2025, and second, to send a clear message that we’re paying attention. We intend to hold the city and state accountable.”

Project 2025, a set of proposed policies that could be enacted early in a potential trump presidency, has sparked widespread anxiety among advocacy groups. They fear that homeless and low-income individuals,especially undocumented immigrants,could face increased risks of deportation and lose access to vital services.Quinn and other advocates are pushing for a unified response to address these potential threats.

Despite the challenges ahead,Quinn remains optimistic that local leaders will prioritize the safety and well-being of vulnerable populations. “We’ve seen what happens when we fail to act,” she said. “This is about making sure history doesn’t repeat itself.”

As the debate over sanctuary cities heats up, advocates are intensifying their efforts to protect the rights and dignity of all residents.The coming months will be pivotal in determining whether cities like New York can withstand the pressures of shifting federal policies and continue to serve as safe havens for those in need.

The Real-World Impact of policy Changes: A Community Advocate’s Viewpoint

Published on January 8, 2025

Quinn says she has personally seen the repercussions of the changes the incoming administration wants to make.
photo by Dean Moses

As the incoming administration prepares to roll out its policy agenda, the debate over its potential impact has intensified. Quinn, a dedicated community advocate, has emerged as a prominent voice, shedding light on how these changes could reshape lives. “I’ve seen firsthand how these changes could disrupt lives,” she remarked, underscoring the tangible consequences of political decisions.

Policy shifts often evoke a spectrum of emotions—hope for progress and anxiety over unintended fallout. Quinn’s firsthand experiences highlight the critical need to center human stories in policy discussions. “It’s not just about numbers or abstract ideas,” she noted. “It’s about people and their daily struggles.” Her words serve as a reminder that behind every policy decision are individuals whose lives hang in the balance.

The far-Reaching Consequences of Policy Changes

Policy changes rarely exist in isolation; they ripple across society, influencing everything from education and healthcare to housing and employment.Quinn’s observations emphasize the importance of engaging with those directly affected by these decisions. “Listening to the voices of the community is crucial,” she said. “Without that, we risk making decisions that do more harm than good.”

As the new administration moves forward, advocates like Quinn are pushing for a more inclusive approach to policymaking. Transparency and collaboration, she argues, are key to crafting solutions that serve the greater good. “We need to work together to find solutions that benefit everyone,” she urged, calling for a collective effort to address the challenges ahead.

Charting a Path Forward: The Need for Purposeful Action

The future remains uncertain, but Quinn’s insights offer a roadmap for navigating the complexities of policy implementation. Thoughtful,well-researched decisions can drive meaningful progress,while hasty actions may lead to unintended setbacks.”It’s about balance,” Quinn explained. “We must weigh the potential benefits against the possible risks.”

Her message is clear: the stakes are high, and the decisions made today will shape the lives of countless individuals tomorrow. By prioritizing empathy, collaboration, and careful analysis, policymakers can create a foundation for lasting, positive change.

Understanding Project 2025 and Its Implications for New York

As the political landscape evolves, “Project 2025” has emerged as a focal point of discussion, particularly in New York. This ambitious initiative, backed by prominent conservative figures, outlines a series of policy proposals aimed at reshaping federal governance. But what does this mean for New Yorkers, and how is the state responding?

What Is Project 2025?

At its core, Project 2025 is a comprehensive blueprint crafted by hundreds of influential conservatives.The project’s architects hope that if former President Donald Trump is re-elected, he will adopt these policies to steer the nation in a new direction. The proposals span a wide range of issues, from immigration to housing, and have sparked meaningful debate across the country.

In New York, concerns are mounting over how these federal changes might impact the state’s diverse population. Critics argue that some provisions could lead to federal overreach, potentially undermining local efforts to protect vulnerable communities.

New York’s Response: Project Hope

To counter the potential effects of Project 2025, New York has introduced “Project Hope,” a state-led initiative designed to safeguard residents from adverse federal policies. This plan includes several key measures:

• Expanding Sanctuary State Protections: Strengthening laws to shield immigrants from federal immigration enforcement.
• Allocating State Funds: Redirecting resources to offset potential cuts in federal housing assistance.
• Extending Housing Vouchers: ensuring housing support is available regardless of immigration status.
• Repealing Shelter Limits: Removing restrictions on shelter access for immigrants and other vulnerable groups.

These steps reflect New York’s commitment to protecting its residents, particularly those most at risk. As one advocate noted, “Change is certain, but how we handle it makes all the difference.”

Why This Matters

The clash between federal and state priorities highlights the importance of dialog and collaboration. By fostering open interaction and prioritizing the needs of marginalized communities, New York aims to navigate these challenges effectively.

Project Hope is more than just a policy response—it’s a statement of values. It underscores the state’s belief in inclusivity and its determination to stand by its residents, no matter the political climate.

Looking Ahead

As 2025 approaches, the debate over these initiatives will undoubtedly intensify. For New Yorkers, the focus remains on ensuring that the state’s policies reflect its commitment to fairness and equity. Whether through Project Hope or other measures, the goal is clear: to create a future where everyone has the possibility to thrive.

In the words of one local leader, “By fostering open interaction and prioritizing the needs of the most vulnerable, we can navigate these challenges together.”

How might Project 2025’s proposed changes to immigration enforcement specifically impact the lives of undocumented immigrants residing in New York City’s sanctuary communities?

Project 2025 is a comprehensive policy initiative proposed by conservative figures, aimed at reshaping federal governance and addressing key issues such as immigration, healthcare, and economic policies. The project outlines a series of reforms and strategies that could considerably impact various sectors, including local communities, particularly in sanctuary cities like New York.

Key Components of Project 2025:

1. Immigration Enforcement: One of the most contentious aspects of Project 2025 is its approach to immigration.The initiative proposes stricter enforcement measures, which could lead to increased deportations and heightened scrutiny of undocumented immigrants. This has raised concerns among advocates who fear that vulnerable populations, including low-income families and homeless individuals, could be disproportionately affected.

1. Healthcare and Social services: The project also includes proposals to overhaul healthcare and social service programs. Critics worry that these changes could result in reduced access to essential services for marginalized communities,further exacerbating existing inequalities.

1. Economic Policies: Project 2025 advocates for economic reforms aimed at stimulating growth and reducing government intervention. While these policies may benefit some sectors,there is apprehension about their potential impact on low-income workers and small businesses.

1. Federal Overreach: Another meaningful concern is the potential for federal overreach into state and local governance. sanctuary cities, which have policies in place to protect undocumented immigrants, could face challenges in maintaining their autonomy under the proposed changes.

Implications for new york:

New York, as a sanctuary city, is particularly vulnerable to the potential repercussions of Project 2025. The state’s leaders and advocates are closely monitoring the situation and preparing to counteract any adverse effects. Key areas of concern include:

• Protecting Vulnerable Populations: Advocates like Christine Quinn are urging local and state leaders to reinforce sanctuary city policies and ensure that vulnerable communities are shielded from aggressive immigration enforcement.

• Legal Protections: The importance of legal safeguards cannot be overstated. Ensuring that all enforcement actions are conducted within the bounds of the law is crucial to protecting individuals’ rights.

• Community Support: Strengthening community support systems and services will be essential in mitigating the impact of policy changes. This includes providing resources and assistance to those who might potentially be affected by increased enforcement or reduced access to services.

• Advocacy and Accountability: Advocates are calling for increased transparency and accountability from policymakers. They emphasize the need for a unified response to address potential threats and hold leaders accountable for their actions.

Moving Forward:

As the debate over project 2025 continues,it is clear that the coming months will be pivotal for New York and other sanctuary cities. The focus will be on balancing the need for security and governance wiht the imperative to protect the rights and dignity of all residents. By prioritizing empathy, collaboration, and careful analysis, policymakers and advocates can work together to navigate the complexities of these proposed changes and strive for a more equitable and just society.