New York CityS Public Hospitals Address Asylum Seeker Crisis with New Podcast Episode
NEW YORK, NY, April 22, 2025 – NYC Health + Hospitals, the largest municipal health care system in the United States, is leveraging the power of podcasting to shed light on the critical work being done to support asylum seekers arriving in New York City. The latest episode of their podcast, The Remedy, titled “Season 2 Episode 4: The New Ellis Island,” delves into the operations of the NYC Health + Hospitals’ Arrival Center, a central hub for newly arriving asylum seekers.
Since opening it’s doors in May 2023, the Arrival Center, part of the city’s Humanitarian Emergency Response and relief Center (HERRC) program, has assisted over 180,000 individuals from more than 160 countries. The center provides crucial services including healthcare, medical and behavioral health screenings, and case management.
“The Arrival Center is at the heart of the city’s response to newly arriving asylum seekers,” said The Remedy host Dr. Michael Shen. “Walking in here was mind-blowing for me. I’ve heard about this place so much from my patients. The scale of the work – the number of patients, the number of languages spoken, the services provided – is huge.”
the episode features interviews with Shane Hanlon, Director of the Arrival Center, and Besa Rexmira, Deputy Director, who discuss the challenges and rewards of providing holistic care to this vulnerable population.
“The Arrival Center is more than just a first stop—it’s a lifeline for asylum-seekers,” said Hanlon. “We’re incredibly proud of the holistic care we offer, from health screenings to family resources support and shelter, all tailored to meet the immediate needs of these new New Yorkers. Seeing 180,000 people individuals leave in a better position than when they arrived speaks to the heart of our work. The impact of services like TB testing, vaccinations, and school enrollment—integrated seamlessly into housing placement—is immeasurable. We ensure that every guest is welcomed with dignity and respect, and is given the support they need to restart their lives.”
Rexmira echoed Hanlon’s sentiment,emphasizing the importance of compassion. “The Arrival Center has been a cornerstone of our guests’ journey towards comfort, survival, and success in a new country,” said Rexmira. “That all starts with meeting each individual with open arms,compassion,and dignity. Our works here reminds me of a favorite childhood quote: ‘extending a hand can bring light to someone lost in darkness.’ This chapter of New York’s story will remain a historic and heartfelt memory for me and my team, as we had the privilege to become a light of hope for the people in our care.”
The influx of asylum seekers has placed a significant strain on resources in New york City and other metropolitan areas across the U.S. In February, Mayor Eric Adams called for further federal support, citing the financial burden on the city’s budget. Organizations like the New York Immigration Coalition have also advocated for policy changes to expedite work permits for asylum seekers, which would allow them to become self-sufficient and contribute to the economy.
Did you know? NYC Health + Hospitals integrates school enrollment services directly into the housing placement process for families arriving at the arrival Center. This proactive approach ensures children can quickly access education and begin to rebuild their lives.
The “New Ellis Island” episode highlights the role of public health systems in addressing complex social challenges. It serves as a reminder of the critical safety net that these institutions provide, ensuring access to healthcare nonetheless of immigration status or ability to pay. The podcast also showcases the dedication and expertise of frontline workers who are working tirelessly to support asylum seekers and help them integrate into American society.
While the Arrival Center has been lauded for its extensive services, some critics argue that the city’s resources could be better allocated to address the needs of long-term residents. Though,advocates for asylum seekers maintain that providing assistance to those fleeing persecution is a moral imperative and a reflection of American values. They argue that investing in the well-being of newcomers ultimately benefits society as a whole.
Other episodes from Season 2 of The Remedy have addressed a range of critical health issues, including the vital role of community health workers, providing healthcare to uninsured New yorkers through NYC Care, and the public health system’s Hospital Violence Intervention programs (HVIP).
Pro tip: Listeners interested in further supporting the work of NYC Health + Hospitals’ Humanitarian Emergency Response and Relief Center (HERRC) program may
