The number of low-income New Yorkers is a matter of statistics. Answering deeper questions about poverty demands drilling down deep into the lives of individual people, a few of whose stories are presented in this month’s issue of City Limits.
Through the transitional jobs program, hundreds of former welfare recipients have performed actual city jobs—not workfare. But state budget reductions will force the program to scale back.
The city is proud that it kept cash assistance rolls at record lows despite the recession. But it can’t answer many questions about who’s applying for welfare—and what happens to them when they do.
“If you’re the manager of a chain, a clean sidewalk doesn’t change the numbers on the register.”
The city’s transit system is better than you think. It’s also under more strain than politicians admit.
Johnny Hincapie has done 20 years for his role in one of New York City’s most infamous killings. Was he even there?
Advocates for the poor and homeless fear he’ll enforce harsh consequences on those who don’t shape up.
Advocates, electeds and city officials are busy devising the next best step for preserving some neighborhood oases.
With shelter numbers at record highs and Mayor Bloomberg’s homeless strategy failing to meet its goals, city officials and advocates weigh in on how New York might respond.
City Limits uses investigative journalism through the prism of New York City to identify urban problems, examine their causes, explore solutions, and equip communities to take action.
Founded in 1976 in the midst of New York’s fiscal crisis, City Limits exists to inform democracy and equip citizens to create a more just city. The organization is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit funded by foundation support, ad sponsorship and donations from readers.
Support local, investigative journalism that has informed and empowered New Yorkers for 45 years.
Support local, investigative journalism that has informed and empowered New Yorkers for 45 years.
