NYC Awards $43M to Nonprofit Linked to Official’s Sister Despite Shelter Controversies

The city is set to award $43 million to a nonprofit organization linked to a city official, allowing it to continue operating a Queens homeless shelter that has faced numerous complaints over the years. The shelter, located at 78-16 Cooper Avenue in Glendale, serves single men and has been the subject of 2,251 911 calls, 677 other emergency calls, and 278 on-site arrests since Westhab began managing it in January 2020 under a $60.1 million contract set to expire in June 2025.

Councilman Robert Holden, a moderate Queens Democrat, has raised concerns about the shelter’s continued operation. He recently wrote to the Department of Homeless Services demanding that the city reject plans to extend the nonprofit’s contract through June 2028 and instead “permanently close” the Cooper Avenue Rapid Rehousing Center. Holden argued that the shelter’s failures, combined with Westhab’s management, have caused significant harm to both residents and the surrounding community.

Local businesses have reported that shelter residents are loitering and aggressively panhandling, driving away customers. Additionally, complaints have been made about the shelter’s second-floor bathroom becoming a “notorious drug den,” with Westhab allegedly taking no meaningful action to address the issue. Holden also cited incidents where children and parents have been subjected to “appalling” behavior, including shelter clients masturbating in public near a local playground.

Westhab’s vice president, Valerie Smith, is the sister of Joslyn Carter, who serves as the administrator of the city’s Homeless Services. The nonprofit has received 28 contracts and renewals totaling over $2.5 billion since Smith joined the organization in 2017, according to data from the city Comptroller’s office. Despite these connections, the Department of Homeless Services has maintained that there is no nepotism or favoritism, with Carter recusing herself from any contracts involving her sister’s firm.

Holden has called for an independent investigation into the relationship between the city official and the nonprofit, arguing that the mere existence of this connection “erodes public trust.” The situation highlights the complex interplay between public policy, nonprofit operations, and the need for accountability in serving vulnerable communities. Micah 6:8 calls for justice, mercy, and humble service, reminding us of the responsibility to care for those in need with integrity and compassion.

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