Facing a housing crisis is one of the most stressful experiences a family can endure. If you are navigating this reality in New York City, it is entirely valid to feel overwhelmed. The system is large and bureaucratic, but knowing exactly where to go and what to expect can provide a much needed sense of control.
For families with children seeking emergency shelter in NYC, the starting point is the Department of Homeless Services (DHS) Prevention Assistance and Temporary Housing center, commonly known as PATH.
What is PATH?
PATH is the central intake facility for families with children entering the NYC shelter system. Before assigning a family to a permanent shelter placement, DHS uses the PATH center to determine eligibility and to explore alternatives that might keep the family housed.
Who Does PATH Serve?
PATH specifically serves:
- Families with children younger than 21
- Pregnant women
- Families with a pregnant woman
Note:
Single adults and adult families without minor children use different intake centers in the city, such as the newly relocated Manhattan intake facilities that opened in May 2026. If you fall into those categories, you can call 311 for your specific intake location.
Location and Operating Hours
Address
151 East 151st Street, Bronx, NY 10451
(Located at the corner of Walton Avenue and 151st Street)
How to Get There
Take the 2, 4, or 5 subway train to the 149th Street/Grand Concourse Station. Walk north on Grand Concourse for two blocks, turn left on East 151st Street, and walk two blocks to Walton Avenue.
Hours:
PATH is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including weekends and holidays. However, the staff officially processes applications during standard business hours (9:00 AM to 5:00 PM). If you arrive after hours, you will still be assisted and provided a temporary placement for the night.
The Intake Process: What to Expect
The shelter application process can be lengthy and requires thorough documentation. Knowing the steps in advance helps reduce surprises.
- The Diversion Interview: When you arrive, you will first meet with a Human Resources Administration (HRA) caseworker. Their primary goal is “diversion,” which means finding ways to prevent you from needing to enter a shelter. They will assess if family mediation, anti eviction legal services, out of city relocation assistance, or rental assistance vouchers like CityFHEPS can safely keep you housed.
- Temporary Placement: If no immediate alternatives are available, you will be assigned a temporary shelter placement for up to 10 days.
- The Eligibility Investigation: While you are in your temporary placement, DHS fraud investigators and family workers will verify your housing history. Historically, families had to provide two full years of housing history to prove they had absolutely no other options. As of 2026, legislative efforts are actively underway to simplify this verification process and remove some of these strict bureaucratic barriers, but you should still be prepared to answer detailed questions about where you have lived.
- The Final Determination: After the investigation, DHS will rule your family either “eligible” or “ineligible” for shelter. Common reasons for denial include failing to prove that everyone in your application belongs to one household, having other viable housing options, or missing scheduled interviews. If denied, you do have the right to reapply or request a Fair Hearing from New York State.
What to Bring
To speed up the process, bring proper identification and documentation for every member of your household. Having these on hand prevents delays in your eligibility investigation.
Gather the following documents if you have them:
- Photo ID: Welfare ID card, green card, driver’s license, passport, or employment ID for adults.
- Birth Certificates: For all family members.
- Social Security Cards: For all family members.
- Medical Cards: Medicaid cards or health insurance information.
- Proof of Income: Your most recent pay stubs if you are currently working.
Helpful Tip:
To spare children from the stress and waiting times of the application process, children ages 0 to 17 are not required to accompany you to PATH when you apply.
Getting Support
The PATH process requires patience, but you do not have to navigate it entirely alone. Family workers are available on site to help you request missing documents from government agencies if you do not have everything on the list.
If you have questions before heading to the Bronx, you can reach the main PATH office at 718-503-6400 or dial 311 to connect with city services.
