New York City’s social services agency now runs one of the nation’s largest housing assistance programs, according to new city data, but advocates and one mayoral candidate say it could be even bigger.

The number of households using rental assistance to exit shelters has risen by 83% over the past four years, according to the latest Mayor’s Management Report on agency performance. Data from the Department of Social Services shows more than 26,000 people moved out of shelters into permanent apartments through a city-funded assistance program at a cost of more than $1 billion last fiscal year.

City officials are touting the latest data as a win for Mayor Eric Adams and the social services agency, but the increase comes despite Adams’ refusal to implement measures passed by the City Council

See Full Page