We Are Urban Resource Institute
Urban Resource Institute (URI) is a leading force in creating pathways to safety, stability, and healing for survivors of domestic violence and individuals experiencing homelessness.
Learn more about the URI Vision, Mission and Values.
Here In Times Of Crisis
As the largest provider of domestic violence shelter services in the United States and a leading provider of shelter and services for homeless families, we address both immediate needs and the underlying causes of violence, poverty, and trauma.
We do more than provide shelter, we offer holistic support services that empower survivors and individuals experiencing homelessness to pursue stability, independence, and healing.
Through trauma-informed care, legal advocacy, economic empowerment, and access to essential resources, our programs are designed to support each person’s journey toward long-term well-being. We recognize that meaningful progress requires care and intervention at every level.
Our Core Areas of Work
Trauma-Informed Support
Delivering holistic, wraparound services that meet survivors and impacted individuals where they are, promoting healing, stability, and long-term well-being. Our approach includes:
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Counseling & Wellness
Individual and group counseling, mental health assessments, and wellness supports embedded in all residential and non-residential programs. -
Legal Advocacy
Through the Legal Education and Advocacy Program (LEAP) and Crime Victim Services Program (CVSP), survivors receive legal support for issues such as custody, protective orders, and financial abuse. -
Economic Empowerment
The Economic Empowerment Program (EEP) offers job readiness training, financial literacy, and career development, including access to high-tech skills training through URI’s Fab Lab. -
Youth Education & Prevention
Early RAPP and RAPP provide school-based and community-centered programming to help youth identify and prevent abusive behaviors. -
Accountability-Based Intervention
The Abusive Partner Intervention Program (APIP) supports individuals in recognizing and transforming harmful behaviors through accountability and education.
Survivor-Centered Housing
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Offering emergency shelter, transitional housing, and permanent affordable housing that prioritize safety, accessibility, and dignity.
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Each site is purposefully designed to foster healing and provide a stable foundation for individuals and families rebuilding their lives.
Policy & Systems Change
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Advancing legislative solutions and structural reforms that expand access to services, enhance accountability, and create equitable pathways to economic and housing security.
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This work is grounded in collaboration – with government agencies, nonprofits, coalitions, and communities – recognizing that lasting impact is achieved through collective effort.
Thought Leadership & Innovation
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Shaping the field through research, public education, and pioneering practices that inform policy, improve service delivery, and elevate the voices of survivors.
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As a recognized leader, URI drives conversations that challenge norms and inspire transformative solutions across sectors.
We are committed to sustainable solutions that foster long-term transformation.
Every minute, 24 people in the U.S. experience intimate partner violence. This is not inevitable. Through innovation, advocacy, and direct services, we are creating a future where survivors thrive, harm is prevented, and communities are stronger.
We are Urban Resource Institute. We do more than respond to crises – we create change.
Residential Programs
URI operates 24 shelters across New York City, providing 3,700 beds on any given night and impacting thousands annually.
Our Programs Include:
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Domestic Violence Residential Program
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Homeless Families Residential Program
These safe, purpose-built spaces are designed to help individuals and families heal and rebuild their lives. Every aspect of our shelters — from the paint on the walls to thoughtfully curated artwork — is designed with intention to create a calming and secure environment for survivors and their families. In addition to emergency and transitional housing, URI is expanding its commitment to long-term stability by developing truly permanent affordable housing. This work is a critical component of our continuum of care, providing lasting safety, stability, and independence for survivors and their families.
These supportive housing projects are:
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Designed to meet the needs of the whole family — including their pets
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Reflect our mission to deliver comprehensive, trauma-informed solutions
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Include ADA-compliant units where possible, ensuring accessibility for survivors with disabilities
All of URI’s trauma-informed programs under the Justice Initiatives Program are also available to shelter residents, ensuring comprehensive support on their path to long-term stability and independence.
On-Site Services Include:
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Ongoing case management
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Mental health assessments
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Individual and group counseling
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Client advocacy
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Transportation assistance
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Childcare
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Recreational services
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On-site food pantries
Shelters also help survivors identify and secure permanent:
- Community Partners
- NYC Department of Education
To ensure survivors’ children have access to education, transportation, and specialized assistance.
Justice Initiatives
The Justice Initiatives Department is a collection of non-residential programs that support individuals and communities who have experienced violence, housing instability, and systemic barriers.
While working to reduce inequities and promote safety, healing, and accountability, our programs provide critical education, resources, and services rooted in compassion and community care.
Our work is guided by the voices and experiences of those most impacted.
We are a hub of support for individuals, families, and their pets – offering holistic, trauma-informed services designed to meet people where they are.
Through the integration of restorative and transformative justice principles, we promote healing and long-term well-being.
At URI, we envision a world where all communities can live safely, with dignity, stability, and the ability to thrive. The Justice Initiatives portfolio includes the following programs:
Abusive Partner Intervention Program (APIP)
Addressing harmful behaviors at their root and fostering accountability.
Bronx Family Justice Center (BFJC)
The BFJC fosters a collaborative, trauma-informed environment, combining legal, social, and emotional supports under a single roof.
Crime Victim Services Program (CVSP)
Providing specialized support for survivors navigating complex challenges, including trauma counseling, safety planning, and advocacy.
Economic Empowerment Program (EEP)
Job-readiness training, financial empowerment education, and career development opportunities.
Legal Education and Advocacy Program (LEAP)
On-site legal aid for child custody, divorce, protective orders, and debt relief.
People and Animals Living Safely (PALS)
Ensuring survivors can find refuge with their pets.
PALS for All
Expanding pet-inclusive shelters and services across NYC by 2030 – prioritizing survivors of gender-based violence and those facing housing insecurity.
Rapid Rehousing
Supporting survivors in securing stable housing.
Relationship Abuse Prevention Program (RAPP) & Early RAPP
Educating youth to recognize and prevent abusive behaviors.