Data shows that the NYC migrant crisis disproportionately impacts the city’s most vulnerable residents.

Once again, solid data shows that progressive policies are negatively impacting New York’s most vulnerable citizens: Three of the five NYC zip codes with the highest concentration of migrant shelters are located in some of the city’s poorest areas. 

These zip codes, which include places like Jamaica, Queens and East New York, Brooklyn, have median incomes below $37,300 and are facing challenges as the number of migrants has exceeded 200,000 since the crisis began. 

The influx of migrants not only strains city services (costing almost $5 billion through May 31 and expected to increase in the next two years), but also significantly decreases the overall quality of life in these neighborhoods. 

For example, Long Island City in Queens is now home to 12% of the 193 shelters that house over 65,000 illegal immigrants in city care, with shelters concentrated near two public housing projects. 

Local residents are concerned about their safety and avoid local parks due to reports of migrants using them for activities like electric-scooter racing and public indecency. 

Residents express frustration over the deteriorating conditions in their neighborhoods, with one stating, “This is not a third-world country. We can’t just let anyone come into our neighborhood and do whatever they want!” 

In the 114th Precinct covering LIC, major crime has increased by 12.3% in the first half of the year compared to 2022, while the citywide average dropped slightly. 

It is evident that importing gang members in large numbers to engage in criminal activities has negative consequences for public safety. 

In addition to increased crime and disorder, residents in economically disadvantaged areas have to deal with the presence of gangs like Venezuela’s Tren de Aragua, making their neighborhoods intolerable. 

Moreover, migrants receive free accommodation, meals, and debit cards as a reward for breaking immigration laws. 

It is important to emphasize that New York City should not be engaging in these actions at all.

While the city has a history of being a melting pot for immigrants, past arrivals had to fend for themselves and succeed. 

Transforming New York’s welfare system into a migrant-focused entity under Mayor Adams and others not only hinders self-reliance but also attracts more illegal immigrants, posing a risk of leading the city into a socioeconomic decline. 

These actions, at the expense of the city’s most vulnerable residents, send a clear message of neglect and exacerbate existing challenges.