Governor Hochul Announces $21.4 Million to Provide Support Services for Displaced Ukrainians Living in New York

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that more than $21.4 million has been awarded to help Ukrainians who have fled their country as a result of Russia's military invasion to temporarily resettle in New York State. The funding will be utilized by 17 refugee services providers around the state to assist displaced Ukrainians now living in New York.

"We are proud to continue to welcome those who have been forced to flee their homeland by the ongoing and unjust violent attack by Russia," Governor Hochul said. "As the home to the largest Ukrainian population in the United States, New York will remain unwavering in our support of the people of Ukraine. This federal funding is crucial to enabling refugee services providers to properly assist Ukrainian families as they adjust to a new life here in New York State."

An estimated 75,000 people have come to the U.S. from Ukraine since the Russians launched their attack, including approximately 14,000 in New York, through the federal government's Uniting for Ukraine program. This program has provided a pathway for displaced Ukrainians and their family members to stay in the U.S. for up to two years. Participants must have a supporter in the U.S. who provides them with financial support for the duration of their stay.

This new funding, from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Office of Refugee Resettlement, will be used to supplement the existing efforts to provide support services through Uniting for Ukraine. Support services to be provided include employment assistance, case management, skills training, English as a second language, and, when necessary, housing and food assistance among others.

Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance Commissioner Daniel W. Tietz said, "New York has long been a beacon of hope for those fleeing persecution and displaced by war throughout the world. This funding will help ensure that those who have arrived from Ukraine will have the resources they need to find safety and stability. The organizations receiving funding have years of experience successfully helping refugees and immigrants to adapt to a new home and thrive as part of the community and we are grateful for their efforts."

Senator Chuck Schumer said, "We stand with the people of Ukraine, whether that is getting them the help they need to fight back against Russia's unprovoked, horrific invasion or to help them build a life here in New York. This $21 million in federal assistance will help Ukrainian war refugees in New York get the support they need from community groups from Buffalo and Rochester to New York City. The Ukrainian people have struggled so valiantly, and New York and America will always stand by their side."

Representative Jerrold Nadler said, "I am thrilled that Governor Hochul is working in tandem with the federal government to help support displaced Ukrainian families in New York. This funding will go a long way toward helping these families access employment opportunities and will help them keep food on the table and a roof over their heads. As Russia continues to commit despicable atrocities in Ukraine, we must continue to do everything we can to aid those affected the most."

Earlier this year, the Governor announced an Executive Order to prohibit state agencies and authorities from contracting with entities that continue to do business in Russia. In early March, Governor Hochul announced actions to strengthen the Department of Financial Services' enforcement of sanctions against Russia, including the expedited procurement of additional blockchain analytics technology. In February, Governor Hochul ordered all state agencies and authorities to divest public funds from Russia and stop doing business with Russian companies.

The Governor also launched a website with resources for Ukrainians and how New Yorkers can help. The following refugee services providers were awarded funding: