New York City Mayor Eric Adams and NYC Health + Hospitals CEO Dr Mitchell Katz have announced the inauguration of the "Bridge to Home" facility, a pivotal support model for patients with severe mental illness ready for hospital discharge but without housing options.

This initiative is part of the Adams administration's $650m plan to combat homelessness and support New Yorkers with serious mental health challenges.

The Bridge to Home facility addresses the gap between inpatient treatment and permanent housing, providing a stable environment with on-site behavioural health care and clinical services.

Situated in Midtown West, the facility has welcomed its first guests and will accommodate 46 individuals at full capacity, offering single rooms and comprehensive support services.

Adams said: "For decades, New Yorkers struggling with serious mental illness have been caught in a cycle between hospitals and streets.

“But now, with 'Bridge to Home,' we are finally breaking that cycle and creating an off-ramp to ensure New Yorkers leaving the hospital have a nurturing and safe environment to maintain their progress."

NYC Health + Hospitals president and CEO Dr Mitchell Katz said: "The launch of 'Bridge to Home' marks a significant step forward in our ability to improve the lives of our most vulnerable New Yorkers living with serious mental illness.

"Too often, without the stability they need to heal, patients leave the hospital only to return to shelters or the street. 'Bridge to Home' offers a safe place to land — with on-site support, clinical care, and a path forward.

“By combining transitional housing with coordinated, compassionate services, we're helping people rebuild their lives and find a more permanent home."

The facility aims to reduce unnecessary emergency room visits and inpatient hospitalisations, decrease homelessness and shelter reliance, and lower interactions with the criminal justice system through intensive treatment and comprehensive support.