Gioia Calls For Investigation Into Veterans' Shelter
Councilmember Eric Gioia speaks with homeless veterans outside the Borden Avenue Veterans' Residence in Long Island City. Residents have complained to Gioia about drugs, gangs, violence and corruption at the shelter. Gioia is calling for an investigation into conditions at the shelter prior to its temporary closure in August. BAVR is currently the City's largest homeless shelter for veterans, with over 400 beds. "These are very serious allegations, and merit immediate attention by the City. Our veterans answered the call of duty, and have bravely served our country. They made many sacrifices, and suffer many scars," Gioia said. "We have an obligation to the men and women who risked their lives for our freedoms, and I am gravely concerned that we are not honoring it."

Photo William Alatriste